Mehrajuddin Wadoo Appointed India Under-17 Men's Football Team Head Coach

HYDERABAD — The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed former India international Mehrajuddin Wadoo as the head coach of the India Under-17 men’s national football team.

The 42-year-old took charge of the squad as the Blue Colts began their preparatory camp in Margao, Goa, on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. The training camp is currently in its trial phase as the coaching staff begins preparations for the upcoming AFC U17 Asian Cup Uzbekistan 2027 Qualifiers.

India have been drawn into Group E for the qualification tournament, which is scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from November 11 to November 20. The Blue Colts will compete against host nation Malaysia, alongside Palestine, Singapore, and Guam in their group matches.

Wadoo holds an AFC Pro Licence and brings extensive professional background to the role as both a coach and a former player. Prior to taking over the national youth squad, he served as the head coach of Mohammedan Sporting Club. His earlier managerial stints include serving as the head coach of Real Kashmir FC and Sudeva Delhi FC.

During his playing career, Wadoo represented the Indian national team at multiple international tournaments. He was part of the national squad that won the AFC Challenge Cup in 2008 and represented India at the AFC Asian Cup in 2011. His international honours also include winning the SAFF Championship in 2005 and lifting the Nehru Cup in both 2007 and 2009. In domestic club football, he won the Indian Super League title with Chennaiyin FC in 2015.

Speaking on his appointment, Wadoo expressed his determination to prepare the squad for the upcoming continental campaign.

“It is a great honour to take charge of the India U17 men’s national team,” Wadoo said. “This is an important age group, and our immediate focus is to create an environment where the players can develop and compete at the highest level. We have started the camp with trials and will prepare for the qualifiers in the best possible manner. I am looking forward to working with the players and having a fruitful camp.”