What’s the story?
The All India Football Federation is desperate to unify the Indian Super League and the I-League, and are currently scouting potential corporate sponsors to bankroll the I-League clubs, namely East Bengal and Mohun Bagan. According to Hindustan Times, the AIFF has already contacted its commercial partners and asked them to invest anything between 40 to 50 crore rupees over a specified period of time.
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A couple of days back, news broke out that the AIFF’s plans of merging the two leagues – the I-League and ISL – could be completed as early as next season, and that the three big teams of the I-League – Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Bengaluru FC, were all interested in participating in such a league.
Also Read: East Bengal and Mohun Bagan reject ISL proposal to shift base out of Kolkata
However, problems regarding the shortage of funds has arisen. Both the Bengal clubs run on a budget that is almost one-third of the ones the ISL franchises run on, but boast of millions of supporters who would be vital to sustaining the ISL’s future. As such, the IMG Reliance is desperate to include them in the next edition of the league.
The heart of the matter
The “merged” league, if it does happen, will include a total of 11 outfits and will run for 5 to 7 months, starting from the month of November. The cost of running a full-fledged ISL franchise is exceptionally high, something that neither the Red and Gold brigade nor the Mariners can afford.
As such, they require sponsors who are ready to pump in a lot of money on a short notice.
What’s next?
According to insiders in the AIFF, some companies have shown an interest in the idea of investing in these traditional clubs. Hindustan Times reports that an international oil company and an Indian liquor company have come forward.
Rumours are also circulating about Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan’s interest in purchasing a stake in the clubs. Khan is a principal owner of Indian Premier League side Kolkata Knight Riders and is said to be interested in an ISL team as well, with Mohun Bagan being the side that has garnered his attention.
Also Read: 5 reasons why the I-League-ISL merger will be harder than it sounds
However, the merger project will be shelved for this year at least, if sponsors are not found for both the clubs by May.
Author’s Take
The financial issue is certainly a big headache for the AIFF, and it remains to be seen how they navigate their way out of it. With the I-League season about to end, players will also have their contracts renewed or terminated, and a call must be taken as to whether ISL clubs can sign them. Moreover, decisions regarding the promotion-relegation rule and the future of Aizawl FC are also pending.
