New Delhi, August 13 (HS): Marking a historic turn for Indian football, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed Khalid Jamil as the head coach of the senior men’s national team, making him the first Indian since 2012 to occupy the coveted role. His contract runs for two years, with an option to extend for an additional year.
The 48-year-old tactician, a former India international midfielder, will assume full-time duties with the Blue Tigers and open his first training camp on August 15 at the Dravid–Padukone Centre for Sports Excellence in Bengaluru. The squad list for upcoming fixtures will be revealed shortly.
Jamil’s first challenge will come in the Nations Cup, where India, placed in Group B, will clash with hosts Tajikistan (August 29), Asian powerhouse Iran (September 1), and Afghanistan (September 4). In October, the team faces two crucial AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Singapore, scheduled for October 9 and 14.
“It’s a matter of immense pride to lead our national team,” Jamil said, reflecting on his appointment. “My years of working closely with Indian players have given me deep insight into their strengths and weaknesses — something that will shape our preparations moving forward.”
A seasoned strategist, Jamil has helmed some of India’s most prominent I-League and Indian Super League sides, including Jamshedpur FC, NorthEast United FC, Aizawl FC, East Bengal FC, Mohun Bagan AC, and Mumbai FC. His crowning achievement came in 2016–17 when he famously guided Aizawl FC to an improbable I-League championship.
On the pitch, Jamil earned 15 caps for India, debuting at the 1997 SAFF Championship before representing the nation in the 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2001 Merdeka Tournament. At club level, he lifted the National Football League title, two Federation Cups, and two IFA Shield trophies with Mahindra United.
His appointment reflects the AIFF’s renewed commitment to homegrown leadership, as India looks to blend tactical discipline with local footballing passion in pursuit of continental success.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
