Historic Appointment

First Indian Head Coach Since 2012: Khalid Jamil is the first Indian to take charge of the national men’s team since Savio Medeira’s tenure ended in 2012. The AIFF Executive Committee selected him from a shortlist that included former India boss Stephen Constantine and Slovakian coach Stefan Tarkovic. The Technical Committee was led by legendary Indian striker IM Vijayan during the process.

Track Record

At 48, Jamil brings vast experience as both a player and a coach. He is celebrated for leading Aizawl FC to a stunning I-League title in 2017, as well as managing several Indian Super League (ISL) teams, most recently Jamshedpur FC. He was the first Indian coach in the ISL and the first to take a team to the playoffs, notably with NorthEast United in 2021.

First Assignment

His first assignment will be the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA) Nations Cup, taking place in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan from August 29, 2025. These matches will be vital preparation ahead of must-win AFC Asian Cup qualifying games in October, with India seeking a turnaround after a period of disappointing results.

Expectations

Jamil arrives with high expectations, having received the AIFF Men’s Coach of the Year award for both 2023–24 and 2024–25. His appointment signals renewed faith in Indian coaches and hopes for a more consistent and culturally attuned approach to team management.