The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has officially named Khalid Jamil as the new head coach of the Indian men’s national football team, ending weeks of speculation. Jamil, who currently coaches Jamshedpur FC in the Indian Super League (ISL), succeeds Manolo Marquez after a competitive selection process. He was chosen ahead of former Indian coach Stephen Constantine and ex-Slovakian coach Štefan Tarkovič.
In its official statement on X, the AIFF confirmed:
“The AIFF Executive Committee, in the presence of the Technical Committee, has approved the appointment of Khalid Jamil as the new head coach of the Senior India Men’s National Team.”
First Indian Coach in 13 Years
Jamil’s appointment is historic, making him the first full-time Indian head coach since 2012, when Savio Medeira last held the role. Over the years, the national team saw foreign coaches like Wim Koevemens, Stephen Constantine, Igor Stimac, and Manolo Marquez.
The 48-year-old’s first major assignment will be leading India in the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, starting August 29.
Who is Khalid Jamil?
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Age: 48
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Current Role: Head Coach of Jamshedpur FC (Contract till 2026)
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Biggest Achievement: Guided Aizawl FC to a historic I-League title in 2016-17.
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Playing Career: Represented Mahindra United, Air India FC, and Mumbai FC, before retiring early due to injuries.
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Coaching Career: Started with Mumbai FC, went on to manage Aizawl FC, Northeast United, and later Jamshedpur FC, where he led them to last season’s final.
With a decade of coaching experience in both the ISL and I-League, Jamil’s appointment marks a bold move towards promoting Indian talent in football leadership. Fans are hopeful his knowledge of the domestic circuit will bring a fresh approach and renewed energy to the national side.
