ISL announce Punjab FC as new entrant

Punjab FC are the first club to gain promotion from I-League.

The Indian Super League today announced Punjab FC as the latest entrant to the top tier league in Indian football from the upcoming 2023-24 season onwards. Punjab FC became the first club to be promoted into ISL, owing to their title winning 2022-23 I-League campaign.

Indian Super League Spokesperson said, “We are delighted to welcome Punjab FC to the Indian Super League family. Punjab FC’s promotion to ISL will further expedite the growing fan affinity and footprint of the game in India. It brings a new wave of enthusiasm, talent and determination into the league, representing the passionate football fans from Punjab. As ISL celebrates its 10th year this season, the league remains committed to delivering on its promise of fostering an inclusive and strong league ecosystem aimed at taking Indian football to new heights.”

Punjab FC to pay Franchise Fee (revealed by Khel Now on August 1)

All the money that the Indian Super League procures from its sponsorship deals, broadcasting deals and payments, are put together in the central pool revenue. Once all the expenses of the League are met, the remaining money left in the pool after the end of the season, is equally distributed among all the clubs. 

Without paying the franchise fee, Punjab would not have been allowed to take a share from the central pool revenue, but now since they will pay the required fee, the club will rightfully be given their share of revenue starting from this season.

Punjab FC’s preparations

After winning the I-League 2022-23, Punjab FC became the first Indian club to achieve promotion into the top-tier of Indian football – the Indian Super League. Their head coach Staikos Vergetis did a commendable job at the helm and as a result has been handed an extension, as revealed by Khel Now earlier.

Speaking of players, Punjab FC have roped in Denechandra Meitei from Kerala Blasters. Among the departures, as of now youngster Aphaoba Singh has left to join Sergio Lobera‘s camp at Odisha FC. The club is also in search of foreign players. It won’t be a surprise if they bag in players who are already tested in Indian soil.

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