Who is Clifford Miranda, the new head coach of Chennaiyin FC?
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Synopsis
Chennaiyin FC has made a pivotal decision by appointing Clifford Miranda as the new head coach, marking a first for Indian coaches in the club's history. With the AIFF Super Cup approaching, Miranda aims to steer the team towards success after a challenging season. Can he revive their fortunes and lead them back to glory?
Key Takeaways
- Clifford Miranda becomes the first Indian head coach of Chennaiyin FC.
- His first major challenge is the AIFF Super Cup starting October 25.
- Chennaiyin FC aims to improve after a disappointing 11th place finish last season.
- Miranda previously won the AIFF Super Cup with Odisha FC.
- The club hopes to reclaim its past glory after several seasons without silverware.
Chennaiyin FC announced on October 18 that they have appointed Clifford Miranda as their new head coach. This decision marks a significant milestone as Miranda becomes the first Indian to hold this position at the club. His inaugural challenge will be in the upcoming AIFF Super Cup, starting in his home state of Goa on October 25. The team faces a formidable group featuring other Indian Super League (ISL) contenders, including Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, and Dempo SC, who will have the advantage of playing at home.
The club and former coach Owen Coyle parted ways earlier this year, with Coyle having been a prominent figure in the ISL, notably winning the ISL Shield with Jamshedpur FC.
Miranda aims to revitalize the club’s prospects, with the AIFF Super Cup providing a prime opportunity to showcase his capabilities. Last season, Chennaiyin FC struggled, finishing 11th with only seven victories across 24 matches under Coyle's leadership.
As a former assistant coach with teams like FC Goa, Odisha FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, and Mumbai City FC, Miranda now steps up as the head coach, with hopes of leading the Marina Machans back to their former glory.
The last time Chennaiyin FC lifted a trophy was during the 2017-18 season when they triumphed over Bengaluru FC in the ISL Cup final. They have only managed to reach the ISL playoffs once in the past five seasons.
Miranda brings experience to the table, having previously won the AIFF Super Cup in 2023 as an interim head coach for Odisha FC, and he hopes to replicate that success with Chennaiyin FC.
At 43, Miranda has had a distinguished playing career, representing both club and country, notably participating in the initial seasons of the ISL with FC Goa and ATK FC.
Point of View
The appointment of Clifford Miranda as the head coach of Chennaiyin FC is a notable and commendable step forward for Indian football. This move not only highlights the rising potential of Indian coaches in the ISL but also adds a layer of local expertise to a club striving to regain its winning status. The upcoming AIFF Super Cup will be a critical test for both Miranda and Chennaiyin FC, as they look to improve upon past performances and make a significant impact.
NationPress
18/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Clifford Miranda?
Clifford Miranda is the newly appointed head coach of Chennaiyin FC, making him the first Indian to hold this position at the club.
What is the AIFF Super Cup?
The AIFF Super Cup is a prestigious football tournament in India, featuring top teams from the Indian Super League and other leagues.
When does the AIFF Super Cup start?
The AIFF Super Cup kicks off on October 25 in Goa.
What challenges does Chennaiyin FC face this season?
Chennaiyin FC is placed in a tough group for the AIFF Super Cup, competing against strong ISL teams and looking to improve upon last season's performance.
Has Chennaiyin FC won any trophies recently?
The last trophy Chennaiyin FC won was the ISL Cup in the 2017-18 season.
