In a landmark moment forIndian football, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed KhalidJamil as the head coach of the Indian senior men’s national team.
Jamil becomes the first Indiancoach to take charge of the national side in 13 years, the last being SavioMadeira in 2012. The appointment, ratified by the AIFF Executive Committee, followsthe recommendation of the Federation’s Technical Committee, chaired by formerIndian striker, IM Vijayan.
Jamil was selected from apool of high-profile candidates, including ex-India coach, Stephen Constantineand Slovakian Tactician Stefan Tarkovic.
Khalid Jamil, a formerIndia international midfielder, is widely respected for his work across Indian football.His crowning achievement came in 2017 when he led underdog Aizawl FC to ahistoric I-League title — a feat still remembered as one of Indian football’sgreatest underdog stories.
He has since coachedprominent clubs including Mumbai FC, East Bengal, North East United, and JamshedpurFC.
The appointment alsobrings a nostalgic twist for Indian football insiders — Arun Malhotra, former Indiadefender and AIFF Technical Committee member, once shared the pitch with KhalidJamil.
The two played together atAir India and Mahindra United in Mumbai during the early 2000s, forming a strongprofessional bond. Both were also part of the national team setup.
“His knowledge,discipline, and passion for the game make him the right choice to lead thenational team at this crucial juncture. It’s a proud moment for all of uswho’ve believed in Indian coaching talent,” said Arun Malhotra of Jammu, J&K.
The AIFF’s decision isbeing seen as a clear endorsement of Indian coaching ability — a much neededbreak from years of relying on foreign expertise.
President of AIFF, KalyanChaubey noted, “We trust
in Khalid’s ability tobring stability, character, and a fresh footballing vision to our nationalsetup.”
Khalid Jamil takes overwith important assignments on the horizon, including the FIFA World Cup 2026qualifiers and preparations for the AFC Asian Cup 2027. Expectations will behigh as he has been tasked with reviving the team’s performance and identity onthe Asian stage.
With his appointment, theAIFF has not only chosen a coach — they’ve made a powerful statement aboutfaith in Indian football, Indian coaches, and Indian potential.