Dark clouds loom large over the future of Indian football. As uncertainty surrounding the country’s premier league, the Indian Super League (ISL), continues to grow, the nation’s top footballers are boiling with frustration and disappointment.
This frustration came to a head on Tuesday when almost all the leading players-including Sunil Chhetri, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhashish Bose, Pritam Kotal, and Anwar Ali, along with many foreign players-jointly published an open letter on Instagram.
Players’ Plea: ‘Let Us Get Back to the Field’
In their strongly worded statement, the players raised a unified voice. Their clear message is: “We want to communicate to those responsible for carrying our game forward in this country that commencing competitive football is the most urgent priority right now.” Through this open letter, they indirectly questioned the Federation: When will professional football resume? When can they return to the field?
Tender Complications: Will ISL be Cancelled?
The controversy surrounding the ISL began with the tender process. The deadline for submitting bids was initially set for November 5, which was later extended to November 7. However, on the final day, no entity, including FSDL, submitted a bid. This has raised serious questions about whether the ISL can be held this season at all. As time runs out, the stagnation of club activities further exacerbates the crisis.
Mohun Bagan has already suspended their practice sessions. Kerala Blasters and Odisha FC have also halted all football activities. Players from the four teams remaining in the Super Cup are in utter confusion. This open letter is not just directed at the Federation but is a profound appeal to every football-loving citizen of the country. Administrative complexities of the Federation and the uncertain future of the players-Indian football stands at a critical juncture.