The three-member committee, appointed by the All-India Football Federation (AIFF), presented two proposals for the start of the Indian Super League (ISL) this season, during a meeting with club representatives, at the Football House. However, clubs remain concerned due to the lack of clarity regarding budgets, the revenue model, and broadcasting arrangements.
Speaking to RevSportz, IFA secretary Anirban Dutta said, “Once we finalise the model under which the ISL will be conducted this season, we will have a clear idea about the start date. Before approaching a broadcaster with a proposal, it is essential to determine the number of matches, the league structure, and the tentative duration of the competition.”
Under the first proposal, the top-tier league would feature 14 teams divided into East and West conferences, with seven teams in each group. During the league stage, teams would play double-leg matches within their respective conferences, resulting in 42 matches per conference. The top four teams from each conference would advance to the Championship Round, where the winner would be decided through single-leg matches. Meanwhile, the bottom three teams from each conference would compete in a relegation round, also decided via single-leg fixtures. All matches across the season would be hosted at two centralised venues.
The second proposal suggests a single-leg format, played on a home-and-away basis, with a total of 91 matches contested by the 14 teams. The fixtures would be randomised, with each team playing either six or seven home matches and an equal number of away games. The league champion would be determined by the team finishing with the highest number of points at the end of the season.
The clubs are expected to discuss both proposals internally before providing their feedback during a virtual meeting with the three-member committee and AIFF secretary general, M. Satyanarayan, on Friday, December 26.
Wednesday’s meeting was attended by AIFF deputy secretary general Satyanarayan, Goa Football Association President Dr Caitano Fernandes, IFA secretary Anirban Dutta, Kerala Football Association President Nevas Meeran, along with representatives from the ISL clubs. Dhruv Sood, CEO of Sporting Club Delhi, was present in the meeting physically, while Vinay Chopra from Mohun Bagan Super Giants and Mandar Tamanhe of Northeast United FC attended it virtually.
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