Khalid Jamil Appointed as New India Men’s Football Team Coach

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has named Khalid Jamil as the new head coach of the Senior India Men’s National Football Team. This announcement was made today, Friday, August 1, 2025, at 02:02 PM IST. Jamil becomes the first Indian to take this role in 13 years, replacing Savio Medeira, who last coached the team in 2012. The decision was approved by the AIFF Executive Committee and Technical Committee, marking a fresh start for the Blue Tigers.

Jamil steps in after the AIFF parted ways with previous coach Manolo Marquez by mutual agreement. The selection process was thorough, with the AIFF reviewing 170 applications. Some notable but fake submissions came from Pep Guardiola and Xavi Hernandez, which the federation confirmed were hoaxes. Instead, the AIFF focused on coaches familiar with Indian and Asian football, choosing Jamil over candidates like Stephen Constantine and Stefan Tarkovic.

Born on April 21, 1977, in Kuwait City, Jamil has a strong football background. He played 40 times for India as a midfielder from 1998 to 2006, representing clubs like Mahindra United and Air India before retiring in 2009 due to injuries. As a coach, he has made his mark by leading Aizawl FC to the I-League title in 2016-17, the first Northeast Indian club to do so. He also became the first Indian to coach an Indian Super League (ISL) team full-time with NorthEast United and recently guided Jamshedpur FC to the ISL semifinals in 2024-25.

The AIFF values Jamil’s practical coaching style and focus on defense. He plans to strengthen India’s defense, inspired by captain Sandesh Jhingan’s tough play, and use fast wingers like Lallianzuala Chhangte for counter-attacks. His first task will be the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA) Nations Cup, starting August 29, 2025, in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, where India will face tough opponents like Iran and Tajikistan.

Currently ranked 133rd in the world, India has upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers in October against Singapore, Bangladesh, and Hong Kong. Jamil’s goal is to improve the team’s performance and prepare for the 2027 tournament. It’s unclear if he will continue with Jamshedpur FC or focus solely on the national team, but the AIFF is confident in his ability to connect with players and boost Indian football.

This appointment highlights a push for local talent in Indian football coaching. Jamil’s inspiring journey—from fleeing the Gulf War as a child to leading the national team—brings hope for the sport’s growth. Stay updated as he begins this new chapter with the Blue Tigers.