Sheikh Faisal Khurshid, Head of Administration at Real Kashmir FC, has become the first Kashmiri football professional to complete the Asian Football Confederation’s Certificate in Football Administration and Management (ACFAM), after successfully finishing a two-year programme comprising 12 modules.
Sheikh Faisal, as per a statement issued on Sunday, began his journey with Real Kashmir FC as a youth player before transitioning into football management on the guidance of his mentors. He started his professional management career with Real Kashmir FC in 2018, serving as Academy Manager and later as Operations Manager until 2021.
Over the years, he has worked with several top professional clubs across India, including Minerva Punjab FC (First Team Manager), Delhi FC (First Team Manager), Downtown Heroes FC (Head of Operations), and Rajasthan United FC (General Manager).
In June 2025, he rejoined Real Kashmir FC as Head of Administration. Sheikh Faisal expressed gratitude to all the clubs and mentors who supported him throughout his journey and thanked Arshad Shawl, owner of Real Kashmir FC, for trusting him with the responsibility.
The completion of ACFAM reflects his continued commitment to professional football administration and development in India.
