5 reasons why the I-League-ISL merger will be harder than it sounds

#5 Will FIFA approve the new structure?

The AIFF will be surrendering to the whims of a corporate but will FIFA approve of the decision?

Even if somehow the IMG R manages to convince all the participating clubs, will they be able to do the same to FIFA? The restructuring will basically mean the AIFF surrendering an entire sport to the whims of a corporate, who can make and bend rules as per their desire.

The I-League, which is run exclusively by the AIFF is a FIFA-recognised league but the ISL is not. However, to make the ISL the top-tier competition in the country, IMG R will require FIFA’s ratification at any cost.

It seems that Reliance Industries are desperate to do whatever it takes to ensure their monopoly in the Indian footballing scenario, but it remains to be seen whether the world body approves of the same or not.