“Stress over Indian Football Made Me Undergo Heart Surgery,” Says Sacked Coach Igor Stimac

Former India national football team coach Igor Stimac has revealed the toll his time in charge took on his health, stating that stress over the team’s performance led to him undergoing heart surgery.

In a recent interview, Stimac spoke candidly about the pressure he faced during his four-year tenure as coach. He explained that the intense scrutiny from the media and fans, coupled with the constant pressure to deliver results, took a heavy toll on his well-being.

“It was very stressful,” Stimac said. “The pressure was enormous. There was a lot of expectation, and I wanted to do well for the country. But it was not easy.”

Stimac’s comments come after his contract was not renewed by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) following the team’s disappointing performance in the AFC Asian Cup 2023. Despite guiding India to the Intercontinental Cup in 2023, the team’s failure to qualify for the knockout stages of the Asian Cup ultimately led to Stimac’s departure.

The Croatian coach admitted that the pressure from the Indian football community was relentless, particularly after the team’s lackluster performance in the Asian Cup. He revealed that the stress he experienced contributed to health issues, eventually culminating in a heart surgery.

“The stress was constant,” he said. “It was affecting my sleep, my appetite, everything. It was really bad. I had to undergo a heart surgery because of it.”

Stimac’s revelation has sparked a debate about the pressure on coaches in Indian football. While fans and media have a right to hold their coaches accountable, the intense scrutiny and unrealistic expectations can have a detrimental impact on their mental and physical health.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing the well-being of coaches and recognizing the demanding nature of their role. It is crucial for football administrators, fans, and the media to create a more supportive and understanding environment for coaches to thrive in, allowing them to focus on their job without the constant pressure of unreasonable expectations.

Keywords: Igor Stimac, Indian Football, Stress, Heart Surgery, AFC Asian Cup, Pressure, Health, Well-being, Coaches, Mental Health, Football Community