Khalid Jamil, the current Jamshedpur FC manager in the Indian Super League (ISL), has been officially appointed as the new head coach of the Indian men’s national football team. The 48-year-old replaces Savio Medeira, marking a significant shift in leadership for Indian football.
Jamil brings with him over 14 years of managerial experience across some of India’s top football clubs. His coaching journey began with Mumbai FC (2009–2016), followed by impactful stints at:
- Aizawl FC (January – July 2017)
- East Bengal FC (2017–2018)
- Mohun Bagan (January – May 2019)
- Northeast United FC (2020–2022)
- Jamshedpur FC (December 2023 – present)
Successful Managerial Career in Indian Football
Khalid Jamil made headlines in 2017 when he guided underdog Aizawl FC to a historic I-League title, becoming the first Indian manager to win the league since its inception. That same year, he also led East Bengal FC to victory in the Calcutta Football League Premier Division.
According to FotMob.com, Jamil posted a 61% win rate at Aizawl FC, which remained competitive at 44% during his time with East Bengal and Mohun Bagan. Since joining Jamshedpur FC, he has managed 50 matches, securing 27 wins and suffering just 18 losses, showcasing his consistency and tactical growth.
Playing Career and National Experience
Before stepping into management, Jamil enjoyed a decade-long playing career with Mahindra United (1997–2007), where he was part of the squad that lifted the I-League (then NFL) title in the 2005–06 season. Internationally, he earned six caps for the Indian national team between 2000 and 2001, playing as a midfielder.
A New Era for Indian Football
Khalid Jamil’s appointment signals a strong step forward for Indian football development. With a proven track record, tactical intelligence, and the ability to bring the best out of local talent, Jamil is expected to revitalize India’s performance on the international stage. The AIFF (All India Football Federation) has shown confidence in his vision as the nation eyes upcoming tournaments including AFC Asian Cup qualifiers and World Cup 2026 qualifiers.