The All-India Football Federation (AIFF) has officially released the minutes of its recent meeting with Indian Super League (ISL) clubs, held in New Delhi on August 7, outlining key developments and pending decisions ahead of the upcoming season.
Among the major takeaways, the AIFF has confirmed that the Super Cup will be brought forward and held before the resumption of the ISL. This move, as previously announced by AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey, is aimed at reshaping the domestic football calendar and ensuring greater match readiness for clubs.
However, the exact start date of the ISL remains uncertain and is currently dependent on a verdict from the Supreme Court. According to the meeting minutes, representation on the matter may be possible if all parties’ legal counsels agree, leaving room for flexibility based on legal outcomes.
Club licensing was also discussed during the meeting, with the AIFF reiterating its commitment to maintaining alignment with the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) statutes. This includes a continued push for professional and infrastructural standards that meet continental benchmarks.
Another notable topic was cost management in youth development. Several clubs expressed concern over rising expenses in youth leagues and urged the AIFF to consider cost-cutting mechanisms to make the structure more sustainable without compromising on talent development.
One positive outcome from the meeting was the clubs’ unanimous agreement to release players for national team duty as and when required. This consensus reinforces the clubs’ support for India’s international ambitions and comes at a crucial time as the national team gears up for a packed calendar.
The final point of the released minutes mentions that the next meeting between the AIFF and the ISL clubs will take place within seven to ten days. During that session, further clarity is expected on the Super Cup dates and the potential restart timeline for the ISL.
As Indian football navigates legal hurdles and logistical challenges, the AIFF’s proactive dialogue with clubs signals an effort to build consensus and stability ahead of a pivotal season for the sport in the country.
