The Indian Super League (ISL) clubs are preparing to meet with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in New Delhi, seeking clarity on the future roadmap of Indian football. The minister has invited the clubs for a meeting at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) office in the national capital on Monday. This development follows the recent proposal by ISL clubs to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for a two-year club-led pilot project aimed at stabilizing the league and improving its commercial performance.
Club Concerns Over Operational Costs
A club official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed relief at the minister's initiative, stating, "We welcome the Union minister's move in clearing the air of uncertainty hanging over the new season. The clubs are struggling to sustain massive operational costs, and there must be measures to bring the situation under control." The official, expected to attend the meeting, emphasized the need for a merit-based system and a level-playing field.
Proposed Reforms
The clubs have put forward several demands, including a player draft with a salary cap of Rs 60 lakh per player per season. They also seek control over the commercial aspects of the league, while allowing the AIFF to manage technical matters. "What is more important is the necessity of downsizing the cost of running the league from a club's perspective," the official added.
Background and Previous Intervention
Earlier this year, Mandaviya brokered an agreement between the AIFF and ISL clubs, paving the way for the start of ISL-12. With ISL-13 now facing a crisis, the outcome of Monday's meeting will be crucial in resolving the ongoing issues. The clubs hope that the minister's involvement will bring much-needed stability to Indian football.
