The delay by the All India Football Federation in finding a new commercial partner for the Indian Super League has once again brought operations at several ISL clubs to a standstill. Most clubs have either suspended training or are awaiting clarity on the league’s future, following AIFF’s failure to attract any bids for the ISL tender.
Earlier, the AIFF had assured clubs that it would expedite the process of appointing a commercial partner to organise the ISL. Based on that assurance, clubs resumed operations and even agreed to participate in the ongoing Super Cup. However, uncertainty has returned after the federation failed to receive a single bid by the extended submission deadline of 5 pm on November 7.
Clubs Suspend Operations
Kerala Blasters have become the latest club to suspend first-team activities, mirroring the move made earlier by reigning ISL champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Chennaiyin FC, too, have conveyed to their players that the training schedule remains uncertain, while FC Goa and NorthEast United have opted to extend the off-period for their squads, who were originally slated to regroup next week.
In a further sign of the deepening crisis, both Chennaiyin FC and Inter Kashi have reportedly decided to pause all football operations and temporarily hold back players’ salaries until there is greater clarity on the ISL’s future.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant, who had planned to restart training on November 10, have also shut down their football activities for now. Although the management has assured that salaries for players and staff will continue to be disbursed.
In contrast, East Bengal FC, one of the four Super Cup semi-finalists, alongside Mumbai City FC, FC Goa and Punjab FC, have chosen to carry on with their plans. The Kolkata club will resume training on November 10 as they prepare for the knockout stages of the competition.
Players Express Concern
The ongoing uncertainty has left players frustrated and anxious about their futures.
“When the top tier of Indian football itself stands uncertain, it affects everything, from grassroots to the national level. Behind every club and match are players, coaches, support staff, countless fans, and many others working quietly to keep the game alive. Their dedication deserves clear direction, accountability, and belief in the system they give everything for. What we need now is transparency, planning, and unity. I really hope the issue is resolved at the earliest, for the future of Indian football, not just the top tier,” said Souvik Chakrabarti, East Bengal midfielder, in a social media post.
East Bengal goalkeeper Debjit Majumder echoed the same sentiment, writing:
“As a player, it hurts to see the Indian football I love caught in so much uncertainty. Football has always been my escape, my passion, my everything. But when the future feels unclear, even the strongest hearts start to ache. Still, we keep playing, hoping the love for the game will guide us through.”
What Lies Ahead
Following the tender setback, senior AIFF officials reportedly met late on Saturday with former Justice L. Nageswara Rao, who was appointed by the Supreme Court to oversee the federation’s functioning. The meeting aimed to assess the situation and chart a possible way forward.
While no concrete decisions have yet been announced, the AIFF has stated that its Bid Evaluation Committee will reconvene soon to decide on the next course of action.
For now, Indian football finds itself at a crossroads, with clubs halting operations, players left in limbo, and the future of the ISL hanging in balance.
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