Khalid Jamil, the head coach of the Indian men’s football team, has emphasized the urgent need for the national squad to include more players of Indian origin from overseas. This perspective arises during a challenging phase for Indian football, marked by the team’s lowest FIFA ranking in nearly a decade and a recent loss against Bangladesh.
Khalid Jamil: Advocating for Broader Player Selection
According to Jamil, the recent inclusion of Ryan Williams, who recently received FIFA clearance to represent India, exemplifies the potential benefits of integrating overseas talent. Williams brings valuable experience and intensity to a team that has been struggling.
The Need for More Overseas Players
Jamil articulated the necessity of expanding the selection pool beyond a single player. “Now that we have taken players like (Ryan) Williams, we need to incorporate more players of Indian origin from abroad,” he stated. The coach stressed the importance of choosing players who are committed to representing India positively.
Challenges Faced by the National Team
Currently, domestic football structures are in turmoil, impacting the national team’s performance. The recent defeat to Bangladesh highlighted critical issues such as:
- Lack of cohesion among players
- Fatigue affecting performance
- Deficiencies in decision-making on the field
Jamil noted that the instability in the Indian Super League (ISL) has prevented players from gaining consistent, high-quality competitive experience. This uncertainty has made each training camp feel more like a hasty preparation rather than a seamless continuation of team cohesion.
Upcoming Goals for Indian Football
Looking forward, Jamil has outlined a significant short-term objective: the Asian Games scheduled for next year. If India participates, he plans to build the team around a U-23 core, supported by three or four senior players for balance.
Importance of Preparation and Continuity
Jamil strongly believes in the mantra that increased match exposure will lead to improved performance. His approach focuses on:
- Expanding the player pool
- Enhancing preparation time
- Fostering continuity within the squad
As Indian football navigates one of its most difficult periods, Jamil’s message is clear: enhancing the player pool is crucial. However, ensuring competitiveness will require dedicated preparation and a squad that aligns with the national vision.
