Odisha FC Players Demand Pending Salaries Amid Financial Crisis
In a significant development from Panaji, players of Odisha FC, led by captain Carlos Delgado, have formally requested the club to clear their pending salaries for the last six months. This financial turmoil has forced some players to obtain loans to battle the ongoing crisis, highlighting severe economic difficulties within the team.
Financial Hardship and Player Struggles
The players expressed their concerns in a detailed letter, emphasizing that salaries have been on hold for half a year. During this prolonged period, many have faced significant financial hardships, as football serves as their primary source of income for themselves and their families. In some cases, players have had to resort to taking out loans to make ends meet, underscoring the dire situation.
We fully understand the challenges the club has gone through; however, the lack of salary payments has placed the players in a very difficult economic situation. For this reason, we respectfully request the payment of the pending salaries, or at least a partial payment, to help alleviate the current hardship, the players stated in their communication.
Pre-Season Delays and Training Uncertainties
Unlike other top-tier clubs in the Indian Super League (ISL), Odisha FC gave the Super Cup competition a miss and have not yet assembled for this season. While all other teams have commenced pre-season training ahead of next month's ISL, Odisha players are still awaiting definitive communication on when they can start their preparations.
This delay is far from ideal, but as noted in the players' letter, they believe a competitive team can be built, even for a short season featuring just 13 matches in a single-leg home and away format. However, the lack of clarity on training schedules adds to their frustrations.
Upcoming ISL Match and Preparation Challenges
Odisha FC have been drawn to play Punjab FC in their opening ISL game on February 16 at home. Players have indicated that they would require a minimum of two weeks of preparation to be ready to compete effectively. However, given that the club still lacks an understanding with the state government regarding the use of the stadium and training facilities, the former Super Cup champions might only start training a week prior to their first match.
According to sources, the club formed a new WhatsApp group on Wednesday and informed the players that they are tentatively planning to start pre-season in Bhubaneswar from February 8-9, subject to government permissions. This tentative plan adds to the uncertainty surrounding their readiness for the upcoming season.
Club Changes and Future Prospects
Amidst these challenges, Odisha FC have seen significant changes in their roster and management. Star forward Hugo Boumous has moved on loan to Selangor FC of Malaysia, while club president Raj Athwal has parted ways after five years at the helm. General manager Ravi Khedar has now become the primary point of contact for club matters and has been actively attending meetings to address the ongoing issues.
Spanish defender Carlos Delgado remains the only foreign player in the team, adding to the pressure on the squad. The club confirmed their participation in the ISL on January 13, aligning with the proposal put forward by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and in support of the government of India's objective to ensure continuity, stability, and long-term growth in Indian football.
As the situation unfolds, the players' demand for salary clearance and the club's ability to manage these financial and logistical challenges will be crucial for their performance in the upcoming ISL season. The football community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that supports both the players' welfare and the club's future in Indian football.
