The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed Khalid Jamil as head coach of the Indian men’s national football team, making him the first Indian to take the helm since 2012. Jamil replaces Spaniard Manolo Marquez, who resigned after a winless spell.
A seasoned domestic coach with a proven track record, the 48-year-old was chosen from a shortlist that included former India coach Stephen Constantine and Slovakian manager Stefan Tarkovic. The AIFF’s Technical Committee finalized his name on July 22, and the Executive Committee ratified the decision on August 1.
Though Jamil lacks international experience, his domestic achievements are noteworthy. Most famously, he led Aizawl FC to a historic I-League title in 2016–17, a feat likened to Leicester City’s Premier League miracle. He also played a key role in revitalizing Jamshedpur FC, guiding them to ISL playoffs and Super Cup finals during the 2023–24 season.
A former India international midfielder, Jamil is one of the few Indians to win the top-tier league both as a player (Mahindra United, 2005) and as a coach. Holding an AFC Pro Licence, he has managed teams across I-League, ISL, and the second division.
His first challenge will come later this month at the CAFA Nations Cup, where India, ranked 133rd, will face strong opposition including Iran and Tajikistan. While Jamil remains under contract with Jamshedpur FC until 2026, he is expected to continue in a dual role at least until the end of the 2025 Durand Cup, where Jamshedpur have reached the quarterfinals.
Jamil’s appointment is being seen as a strategic reset by the AIFF, signaling trust in homegrown talent to reignite Indian football’s aspirations.