Jamshedpur FC head coach Pronay Halder hailed Khalid Jamil as one of the best coaches he has worked with and praised his distinct coaching style. Halder played a crucial role in Jamshedpur FC’s Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 playoff run and also helped the side reach the Kalinga Super Cup final.

Halder featured in 10 ISL 2024-25 games, having missed the opening fixtures due to injury. He gradually built up his fitness over the season and played a total of 469 minutes. Though not a regular starter, his experience and versatility proved valuable in the playoffs. He started all three of their playoff matches, two of which they won including the first-leg semi-final win over Shield and Cup winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Jamshedpur FC’s campaign however ended in the semi-final after a last-minute winner sent MBSG through to the final. Despite the exit, Halder impressed as a centre-back in the absence of the team’s regulars.

“Khalid sir has his unique style of coaching. But more than that, it is how he is with the entire team in the dressing room. I obviously share an excellent bond with him, but the best thing about him is that he never picks favourites,” Halder was quoted as saying by Sportstar.

Jamil was named the AIFF Men’s Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season in April. Under his guidance, Jamshedpur FC enjoyed a resurgence, finishing fifth and returning to the ISL Playoffs, a huge leap from their 11th-place finish in 2023-24 campaign when Jamil took charge midway.

“Jamil sir is the perfect leader, and he has been given his dues by being justly awarded as the AIFF Coach of the Year. His role has been immense in my footballing career. Along with Sanjay Sen sir, he is the best coach I have had,” added Halder.

After falling short in the ISL semi-finals against MBSG, Jamil got another shot at silverware in the Super Cup final but FC Goa handed them a 3-0 defeat, ending their title hopes.

Despite ending the season without a trophy, it was a remarkable season for the Men of Steel and Halder has vowed to come back stronger.

“Winning and losing is part of the game. But the way Khalid sir motivated us after the final is commendable. We will be ready to fight again from next season,” said Halder.