Pablo Milad, president of the National Professional Football Association (ANFP), announced the start of the search for a new head coach for the Chilean national team.
The appointment is critical as the federation seeks a leader to guide the squad, known as La Roja, toward the 2030 World Cup [3]. The search comes during a period of organizational transition and perceived instability within the national football structure.
Milad said that the process began with a trip to Quito, Ecuador, on April 23, 2026 [2]. This trip included attendance at two congresses intended to shape the future of the national team [2]. While this date marks the beginning of the process, other reports have provided conflicting timelines, with some suggesting a final decision may not be reached until after the 2026 World Cup [2].
The timing of the search is complicated by Milad's own tenure. "We are in a process of change and, in the eyes of any coach, this may be instability, from the point of view that I have a mandate until December 31," Milad said [1].
Milad also addressed the current state of the talent pool available to the national team. "We do not have great figures," Milad said [3]. This candid assessment suggests the incoming manager will need to focus on rebuilding the squad's core, rather than managing established global stars.
Despite the conflicting reports regarding the final selection date, the ANFP has signaled that the search for a technical director is now an active priority. The federation aims to resolve the leadership vacuum to ensure long-term planning for the 2030 cycle [3].
“"We are in a process of change and, in the eyes of any coach, this may be instability"”
The search for a new coach is happening against a backdrop of institutional uncertainty. With Milad's mandate ending on Dec. 31 and a self-admitted lack of star players, the ANFP is not just looking for a tactician, but a builder who can withstand administrative volatility while developing a new generation of talent for 2030.
