Jamal Sellami steps down as Jordan head coach after historic qualification

Moroccan coach Jamal Sellami has officially left his role as head coach of the Jordan national team, bringing to an end a memorable spell during which he guided the country to its first-ever FIFA World Cup qualification.

The announcement was made on Sunday by Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein, President of the Jordan Football Federation, who confirmed the conclusion of Sellami’s tenure while paying tribute to the work that transformed one of the most significant periods in the nation’s football history.

In a message shared on his official X account after meeting the coach, Prince Ali expressed his gratitude for Sellami’s commitment and the lasting impact he made during his time with the national team, known as the Nashama.

“During my meeting today with my dear brother, Captain Jamal Sellami, and as your adventure with the Nashama comes to an end, we thank you for your efforts, your remarkable commitment, and your contribution to achieving this historic feat with our national team’s qualification for the World Cup.”

The federation president continued his tribute by highlighting the bond Sellami built with Jordanian football during his time in charge.

“Your experience with the Nashama family was exceptional, and you will always remain a beloved son of Jordan, thanks to your contributions of sincerity, professionalism, and leadership.”

Prince Ali also wished the Moroccan coach success in the next stage of his career while indicating that his relationship with Jordanian football would continue beyond his departure.

“We wish you every success in your next step. You will always remain a valuable resource, a man of advice and experience of whom we are proud and from whom we will continue to benefit.”

Sellami’s departure closes a chapter that will be remembered as one of the most successful in the history of Jordan’s national team.

Under his leadership, Jordan achieved what had previously seemed beyond reach by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup finals for the first time. The accomplishment marked a historic breakthrough for the national side after decades of striving to reach football’s biggest tournament.

That achievement secured Sellami a unique place in Jordanian football history as the first coach to guide the country to a World Cup final tournament.

His success also earned widespread recognition within Jordan, with the federation acknowledging not only the historic qualification but also the professionalism and leadership he displayed throughout his tenure.

Although no further details have been provided regarding his next destination, Sellami leaves with his reputation strengthened after overseeing one of the country’s greatest footballing achievements.

For Jordan, attention will now turn to identifying a successor capable of building on the foundations established during Sellami’s spell in charge, while the Moroccan coach departs having secured a legacy that will remain closely associated with the nation’s historic journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.