New Delhi, July 29 – In a historic move, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed Khalid Jamil as the head coach of the Indian men’s senior football team, marking the first time in over a decade that an Indian will lead the national side.
The decision was finalized on Friday following a month-long selection process. The AIFF Executive Committee, in the presence of the Technical Committee, approved Jamil’s appointment, replacing Spaniard Manolo Marquez, who stepped down last month after a disappointing run of results.
“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,” the federation announced in a statement on X.
Jamil, 48, beat out seasoned contenders including former India coach Stephen Constantine and Stefan Tarkovic, ex-Slovakia national team manager. His appointment was strongly backed by AIFF’s Technical Committee, chaired by former India striker IM Vijayan.
A Proven Indian Leader
Jamil’s coaching credentials are among the most impressive in Indian football. He remains the only Indian coach to lead a team to the ISL playoffs, doing so with NorthEast United in the 2020-21 season. Most recently, he guided Jamshedpur FC to a fifth-place finish in the 2024–25 ISL season.
A former India international himself, Jamil earned 40 caps as a midfielder before transitioning to coaching in 2009. He had early stints with Mumbai FC and famously led Aizawl FC to a fairy-tale I-League title in 2017.
His coaching resume also includes managing both of Kolkata’s footballing giants – East Bengal and Mohun Bagan.
From Kuwait to Indian Football’s Frontlines
Born in Kuwait to Indian Punjabi parents, Jamil moved to India after his U-14 years and began his senior football career at Mahindra United, where he spent a major chunk of his 12-year playing career.
First Challenge: CAFA Nations Cup
Jamil’s first assignment as national coach comes next month at the CAFA Nations Cup, to be held in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, beginning August 29. The tournament offers a key opportunity for India to build momentum ahead of crucial fixtures.
Eyes on AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualification
Jamil’s tenure begins with an uphill task – reviving India’s qualification hopes for the AFC Asian Cup 2027. India is currently bottom of Group C in the third round of qualifiers, with just one point from two games. The road ahead includes two must-win clashes against Singapore, and key ties against Bangladesh and Hong Kong.
Only the group toppers will qualify for the final tournament to be held in Saudi Arabia.