Mehrajuddin Wadoo appointed India U17 men's head coach

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed former India international Mehrajuddin Wadoo as the head coach of the India U17 men’s national team. Wadoo, 42, has officially taken charge as the team, known as the Blue Colts, commenced a preparatory camp in Margao, Goa, on September 2, 2026.

The camp is currently in a trial phase to prepare the squad for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Uzbekistan 2027 Qualifiers. India is placed in Group E for the qualifying tournament, which is scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from November 11 to 20. The team will compete against Malaysia, Palestine, Singapore, and Guam.

Wadoo is an AFC Pro Licence holder with extensive experience as both a player and a coach. His coaching background includes roles with Mohammedan Sporting Club, Real Kashmir FC, and Sudeva Delhi FC. As a player, he was part of the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup winning squad and represented India at the 2011 AFC Asian Cup.