The All India Football Federation Deputy General Secretary, M Satyanarayan, in a reply email sent to FC Goa CEO Ravi Puskar and the CEOs of all the ISL clubs on Wednesday, urged them to become united and find a solution through a mutual understanding between the ISL clubs and the AIFF to get rid of the ongoing stalemate of the Indian Super League this year.
The ISL clubs sent an email to the AIFF Deputy General Secretary on 5th November, seeking resolution of the 12 crucial issues.
Satyanaraya acknowledged the clubs’ anxiety and said the situation has come to quick conversations and practical steps to solve the crisis, which is deepening gradually.
“We assure you that the AIFF will take all necessary steps, strictly in accordance with the Constitution and by following the direction of the Supreme Court, to address the concerns raised by you and the prospective bidders. At the same time, we believe that a comprehensive solution cannot be achieved overnight,” the letter read.
The Deputy General Secretary pointed out that some of the 12 points raised by the ISL Clubs carried contradictions or remained stuck in legal proceedings. Yet, he still asked the clubs to move forward together. He argued that Indian Football had benefited from joint investments over the past decade, and therefore, time lost now would only deepen the damage.
“We request you to work towards finding a possible solution. It goes without saying that over the last 10–15 years, the marketing partner and clubs have jointly made significant investments and footballs to bring meaningful changes to Indian club football.
To safeguard these investments, it is necessary that we work on a war footing to minimize any loss of time. We agree that a long-term solution is needed. However, football must not lose its continuity, and therefore, the league should commence at the earliest,” the letter said.
Satyanarayana also emphasized coming to a comprehensive solution before the forthcoming executive committee and the AGM on 20th December.
Significantly, the Deputy General Secretary also conveyed the support of AIFF regarding the ISL clubs’ previous proposal to form a consortium and make an agreement with the AIFF to resume the ISL, where the participating clubs themselves will be the owners of the League.
Satyanarayan acknowledged Point 12 of the club’s email, which mentioned the consortium idea. His e-mail said, ‘The AIFF was open to exploring that framework, but it requires internal approval and constitutional compliance. The letter also states that any decision must follow due process at the Executive committee meeting and the AGM.
