AFTER 16 YEARS

The nation's beloved sport is amidst transformative reforms. A 16-year era has concluded, ushering in a new epoch for Azerbaijani football governance. The long-awaited AFFA elections have transpired.

Rovnag Abdullayev, the 16-year steward of AFFA, abstained from candidacy. Rovshan Najaf, the Supervisory Board Chairman of Neftchi Club and the sole nominee, was elected the new AFFA President by unanimous open vote.

Collaborative Aspirations

In his inaugural address, Rovshan Najaf delineated his vision: "Owing to the head of state's policies, sports are flourishing in our nation. It is imperative that we collectively elevate our football standards. We are committed to devising a fresh AFFA strategy, soon to be unveiled. Its execution will be our compass, guiding us on the correct path and alerting us to any deficiencies needing swift rectification. We will devote particular attention to youth football and strive to invigorate fan engagement and football's nationwide appeal. Our ambition is to witness bustling stadiums, not fans relegated to home viewership. Additionally, we aim to bolster women's football, already on an upward trajectory. Such endeavours demand time and patience. Moreover, our national team's FIFA ranking position is unsatisfactory. Progress must be a joint venture."

The new AFFA chief emphasized collective decision-making: "Henceforth, the executive committee will deliberate decisions as a unit. Imminent discussions will encompass clubs and the championship—a subject warranting thorough analysis. In decision-making, we will draw from Azerbaijani and global precedents. Football is akin to a familial entity; collaboration is its cornerstone... It transcends individual effort. My active involvement is assured, yet I will seek the support of colleagues, the media, and the broader football community."

The election also saw the appointment of new executive committee members. With candidates equalling the number of available seats, open voting ensued. Samad Gurbanov, Farid Mansurov, Khayal Jafarov, Gurban Gurbanov, Maqsud Adigezalov, Elshad Nasirov, Balakishi Gasimov, Sarkhan Hajiyev, Ulvi Mansurov, Leyla Khalilova-Rzazade, Konul Mehdiyeva, and Zaur Akhundov were unanimously elected.

Key Objectives and Challenges

Assessing the past 16 years of Azerbaijani football is challenging. The state has generously provided material backing and infrastructure. This period witnessed the construction of contemporary stadiums and the hosting of significant football events. The World and European Under-17 Championships, the UEFA Europa League final, and the European Championship matches held in Azerbaijan garnered acclaim from experts both domestic and international. Yet, the national team's success remained elusive. Despite a succession of foreign coaches and the naturalization of players, the desired impact was absent. The national team consistently trailed in development, and youth football did not reach its full potential.

The incoming management faces a daunting task. Rovshan Najaf's transition from FC Neftchi to AFFA equips him with intimate knowledge of Azerbaijani football's challenges. A children's football development strategy and a cadre of professional coaches are paramount. The potential within younger cohorts must be harnessed, and talented youths should be considered for international football academies. The formation of managers, sports medics, and physical trainers is crucial for the nation's football vitality.

The crux of the issue lies with the main football team's evolution. Transforming the national team is a multi-year endeavour. Identifying a fitting head coach is the first step, followed by harmonizing training across all age groups. Indeed, the national team represents the pinnacle of the country's football pyramid. However, without a robust foundation of personnel and youth development, national team aspirations are futile.

The football community eagerly anticipates AFFA's May announcement of the new national team head coach.