– After 13 years, an Indian becomes the head coach of the team

New Delhi, August 1 (H.S.): The All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced Khalid Jamil as the head coach of the Indian men’s national football team, marking the first Indian in this role since 2011-12. Jamil takes over from Manolo Marquez, who resigned after a significant winless streak.

Chosen from a shortlist that included Stephen Constantine and Stefan Tarkovic, Jamil’s selection was influenced by the committee’s desire for a coach connected to the team’s cultural environment. His appointment received committee support on August 1, partially due to budgetary constraints from the declining revenue of ₹137.74 crores to ₹110.5 crores and costs associated with terminating Igor Stimac’s contract.

Jamil, aged 49, boasts a notable domestic record, having won top division titles as both a player and coach, alongside holding an AFC Pro License. His achievements include leading Aizawl FC to its first I-League title and guiding Jamshedpur FC to the Super Cup semifinals and ISL runner-up.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar