With uncertainty looming over the future of the Indian Super League (ISL), Indian footballers, alongside international players, have made a plea to FIFA to address the ongoing issues surrounding the franchise-based tournament. Notable figures in Indian football such as Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Sandesh Jhingan, and Sunil Chhetri have urged FIFA to intervene amidst the current crisis in the country’s football landscape.
Expressing their concerns in a video message, Gurpreet emphasized the absence of competitive football games in the ISL during January, highlighting the need for clarity and assurance for players, staff, owners, and fans. Jhingan echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the necessity for transparency and a secure future for all stakeholders. Chhetri stressed the urgent need for FIFA’s involvement to salvage Indian football from what they described as a humanitarian, sporting, and economic crisis.
In response to the escalating situation, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has received assurances from ISL member clubs regarding potential participation in the upcoming 2025-26 season. However, club participation is contingent upon satisfactory financial and governance guarantees from the AIFF. The clubs have also requested clear objectives from the AIFF outlining the league’s financial and governance progression, as well as financial support from the government to bolster the league’s sustainability.
City Football Group (CFG) recently divested its ownership in Mumbai City FC, relinquishing control back to the club’s original owners. The acquisition of a majority stake in Mumbai City FC by CFG in 2019 marked a significant milestone in the club’s development, with the partnership contributing to its growth and global presence over the years.
