Clifford agrees terms with Chennaiyin FC, set to become chief coach

Panaji/Chennai: Chennaiyin FC have agreed terms with Clifford Miranda and are set to make him their first domestic coach in the top-tier Indian Super League (ISL).Chennaiyin mutually parted ways with Owen Coyle in July due to uncertainty surrounding the start of the top-tier league.

The club then paused operations and are now expected to make a return with the signing of Miranda as coach.“Clifford has terminated his contract with Mumbai City and is on his way to Chennaiyin,” a senior official told TOI. “Terms have been agreed, both parties are happy with the agreement, and the contract will be formalised soon. Chennaiyin were keen on a domestic coach and Clifford fits the bill."Miranda, 42, famously won the Super Cup with Odisha FC in 2023 to become the first Indian coach to secure a major trophy for an ISL club.

He has previously served as assistant coach at FC Goa, Odisha, Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Mumbai City.A former India midfielder, he retired in 2017 and immediately went into coaching, taking over the FC Goa Reserves side which won the Goa Professional League under him. According to sources, Chennaiyin have "conditionally consented" to participate in next month's Super Cup, subject to clarity on the tournament structure, financial implications and broadcast rights.

“CFC wrote a letter to the AIFF late on Thursday. Right now, there is no clarity on the broadcaster, format, venues etc. Clubs will have to take those factors into account when coming up with their cost estimation and for logistical planning. There is also no clarity on broadcast revenue share,” a source told TOI.The AIFF had asked the clubs to confirm their participation by Thursday. “If the AIFF comes up with a positive response, Chennaiyin will play the Super Cup. That is the club’s intent.”