Manuel D’Souza: From I-League Player to S&C Coach for Indian Football

by Chandler D'silva October 5, 2025

Manuel D’Souza, a local boy from the bustling streets of Mumbai, is now the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Indian Men’s National Football Team. Manuel has always been deeply connected to football.

From his early days on the pitch to his current role in shaping India’s footballing future, his journey has been one of relentless passion and commitment. But how did this former player, who once dreamed of leading his country, transition into one of the most respected figures in Indian football? Let’s take a closer look at Manuel’s story—how a love for the game ignited in his childhood has fueled a career dedicated to the sport and how he now strives to elevate Indian football to new heights.

For Manuel D’Souza, football wasn’t just a game—it was a way of life. Growing up in Bandra, he was deeply influenced by watching his uncle train every morning. It wasn’t long before the sport became his passion, with Manchester United’s 1999 treble igniting a love for the Red Devils that continues to this day. “I still remember the 1999 treble by Manchester United,” Manuel recalls with a smile. “That’s when I fell in love with the Red Devils, and from that moment, I knew I wanted to be a footballer.”

Manuel’s journey began at St. Aloysius High School, Bandra, where he formed lasting friendships with Ameay, Jenish, Rohel, and Joshlyn. However, it was football that dominated his time. His raw talent was quickly noticed, leading him to represent Maharashtra at the U-16 and U-19 levels. His commitment to the game took him further, earning him a spot with Mahindra United U-19 and later, Mumbai FC U-19, where he captained the team under the guidance of Khalid Jamil.

Manuel’s dedication to the sport bore fruit when he made his senior debut with Mumbai FC in the I-League. Playing under Khalid Jamil for seven years, he learned invaluable lessons that shaped his leadership style and work ethic. “Khalid bhai’s guidance helped me grow both on and off the pitch,” says Manuel.

As in any athlete’s journey, injuries started to take a toll on Manuel’s playing career. After stints with U Mumba FC and MYJ in the I-League 2, Manuel decided to step away from competitive football. “As a player, I never had the luxury of proper guidance in strength and conditioning,” he reflects. “So I decided to give back to the sport in a different way, by helping players reach their peak physical potential.”

This marked a pivotal moment in his career, as he transitioned to become a Strength and Conditioning Coach, working with top athletes across multiple sports, including Pro Kabaddi and Pro Volleyball. His clients include well-known footballers such as Jayesh Rane, Adil Khan, Raynier Fernandes, and Wayne Vaz, to name a few.

The moment that changed Manuel’s life came when his former mentor, Khalid Jamil, reached out with a life-altering opportunity. “Khalid bhai called and told me he wanted me as the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Indian Men’s Senior National Football Team,” recalls Manuel. This phone call marked a full-circle moment in Manuel’s career—from playing under Khalid to coaching the national team alongside him.

For Manuel, coaching the Indian National Football Team has been a dream come true. He believes his own experience as a player allows him to connect with the athletes in a unique way. “Working with the boys was easy because I’ve been in their shoes,” he explains. “I can relate to what they go through, which helps me communicate and connect better.”

One of Manuel’s proudest achievements is working with the Indian national team and helping to push Indian football to greater heights. “Serving and giving back to my country through football is the best thing I’ve ever done,” he shares. As he continues his work with the national team, Manuel’s mission remains clear: to help Indian football earn the recognition it deserves on the world stage.

“Football has given me everything,” Manuel concludes. “Now, it’s my turn to give everything back. Jai Hind.”

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