Everybody must take responsibility & give 100% for the team says Khalid Jamil on ISL 2024-25 Media Day

Khalid Jamil exudes confidence in his team as the new season approaches.

Jamshedpur FC head coach Khalid Jamil, accompanied by players Javier Siverio, Rei Tachikawa, and Nikhil Barla, addressed inquiries from the press, offering insights into the team’s mindset, sharing their perspectives, and unveiling the strategic blueprint they intend to implement for the forthcoming Indian Super League (ISL) season.

"Everybody must take responsibility and give 100% for the team." – Khalid Jamil 🗣️ Our gaffer Khalid Jamil shares his philosophy on team success alongside Rei Tachikawa, Javi Siverio, and Nikhil Barla at the #ISLMediaDay in the City of Joy! 💬 #JamKeKhelo #IndianSuperLeague… pic.twitter.com/8IRExkXRWT

— Jamshedpur FC (@JamshedpurFC) September 4, 2024

On being asked what makes Jamshedpur FC special

When questioned about what distinguishes Jamshedpur FC, particularly given his previous stints with NorthEast United FC and East Bengal, Khalid Jamil expressed profound gratitude towards the Jamshedpur FC management and the Tatas for entrusting him with the opportunity and consistently supporting him at every critical juncture of the game.

He asserted, ” I am thankful to the Jamshedpur FC management for putting their trust and belief in me. I feel indebted and grateful to have been given a chance.”

He conveyed his deep appreciation for the club’s faith in his abilities, especially after narrowly missing the playoffs, acknowledging how the management recognized his potential and unwavering desire to secure silverware for the club, extending his tenure as head coach for an additional two years. Jamil also extolled the remarkable backing from both the management and the fervent fanbase, which, in his eyes, elevates Jamshedpur FC above other clubs he has coached, making it truly special.

On increasing pressure and competitiveness in the ISL every season

When questioned about the additional pressure and heightened competitiveness in the upcoming ISL season, particularly with the inclusion of an extra team from the I-League, the Indian tactician acknowledged that both players and coaches inevitably face immense pressure, which is inherent when competing in the pinnacle of Indian football.

Khalid Jamil added, “I feel there is pressure in every match. It’s always there, with the team expected to perform well and each player needing to give their best.”

However, he emphasized that the team capable of managing this pressure, maintaining composure, and consistently performing at their highest level is the one that ultimately triumphs in the tournament.

On how intimidating it is to be an Indian coach in the competition

When asked whether he feels either intimidated or special being one of the very few Indian coaches leading an ISL team, he asserted, “I don’t see myself that way said. I approach my role as a professional, focusing only on my duties as a coach.”

Jamil firmly believes that Indian coaches should not lean on the crutch of their nationality as an excuse or foster any sense of inferiority. Instead, they must embrace their responsibilities and consistently strive to deliver their best.

The mentor is determined to ensure that the label of being an Indian coach does not diminish his standing or performance compared to his foreign counterparts, as he remains committed to performing at his peak. He said “I advocate for Indian coaches to be given ample opportunities to demonstrate their capabilities.”

Changes he wishes to bring in the upcoming season

When asked about the changes he intends to implement now that he will be leading the club from the start of the season, following his mid-season appointment last year, Khalid Jamil reflected on his tenure thus far. He said, “I admit the club did well when I first took over, but we struggled with consistency, which led us to narrowly missing a playoff spot.”

Jamil emphasized the importance of learning from those shortcomings, expressing his resolve to correct the mistakes of the past and prevent their recurrence in the upcoming season. He stressed the need for the team to establish and maintain a strong foothold from the very beginning, ensuring that they meet the high expectations of Jamshedpur FC’s passionate fanbase.

On the domination of big boys in the ISL

When Khalid Jamil was questioned about the dominance of prominent clubs like Mumbai City FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the tournament, and how teams can draw inspiration from NorthEast United FC’s recent Durand Cup victory amidst such competition, he maintained a resolute stance. He expressed his unwavering confidence, asserting that, on any given day, his team’s commitment to playing quality football enables them to overcome even the strongest adversaries.

Jamil asserted, “I believe my current squad is exceptionally talented and capable of pulling off significant upsets against the major teams,” he asserted. The coach refuted the notion of overwhelming dominance by the big clubs in the ISL, citing historical instances where underdog teams have triumphed against the odds.

Rei Tachikawa on what made him extend his stay in the Steel City

When Japanese midfield maestro Rei Tachikawa was asked about the reasons behind his decision to extend his stay at Jamshedpur FC, he revealed that his primary motivation was the contract extension of head coach Khalid Jamil. Rei asserted, “First of all the fans of Jamshedpur and the entire Jharkhand, their love and passion for us and the game made me stay. Secondly, coach showed a lot of faith in me and allowed me to represent our fans. I am excited and positive for this season.”

Tachikawa expressed deep admiration for Jamil’s organizational skills and his efforts to maintain unity and structure within the team, despite having joined mid-season. He emphasized that the most crucial aspect for any player is to have the trust and belief of their coach, and in this regard, Jamil had always supported and believed in him. The extension of Jamil’s tenure as head coach was the decisive factor in Tachikawa’s choice to remain at the club.

Javier Siverio on his plans for the new season

When Spanish striker Javier Siverio was inquired about his experience of being in the Steel City from the start of the season, after joining mid-season last year, he reflected positively on his time at Jamshedpur FC. Siverio noted that although he played only 2-3 weeks last season, his mindset aligned closely with that of his coach, which made his experience particularly rewarding.

He said, “I think having Khalid Jamil from the start gives us an advantage from the last time. We have enough quality this season to reach the top six of ISL and we are training every day with the plan of the coach to win, that’s our goal.”

Additionally, Siverio highlighted the necessity for teams to take full responsibility and execute exceptional football to secure a top-six finish in the highly competitive ISL, underscoring the importance of maintaining high standards throughout the season.

Nikhil Barla on his journey from a fanboy to a senior team player for Jamshedpur

When young prodigy and local talent from Jharkhand, Nikhil Barla, was asked about the experience of playing for his home team, he expressed profound excitement and pride. Barla shared that he has been a devoted admirer of Jamshedpur FC since his days at the Tata Football Academy (TFA), and being promoted to the senior team has been a remarkable journey from a fan to a player.

Barla said, “It matters a lot. I was in the academy and have been watching Jamshedpur FC since its inception. I’ve seen football as a fan and as a player, and football is very important for me.”

He described this transition as exceptional and fulfilling. Regarding the departure of Provat Lakra from the right-back position, Barla acknowledged the challenge and competitive nature of securing a spot in the starting XI. He emphasized the importance of remaining driven and performing at his best to impress the coach and earn his place on the team.

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