I-League giants who are not a part of the league now

The list features some of the iconic clubs who have had a positive mark in Indian Football

Indian football has witnessed significant growth and transformation over the years, with various leagues emerging and evolving to cater to the nation's love for the beautiful game. The I-League, previously known as the National Football League, has been a crucial part of this development. 

However, in recent years, some of the I-League giants have disappeared from the league, leaving a void in the hearts of passionate football enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore what happened to these once-prominent clubs and where they are now.

1. Salgaocar FC:

Salgaocar Football Club, based in Goa, has a rich history in Indian football. Founded in 1956, the club enjoyed considerable success in the National Football League and later in the I-League. They were crowned champions in the 1998-99 season and continued to be a strong presence in Indian football for many years. However, in 2016, Salgaocar FC made the surprising decision to withdraw from the I-League.

The primary reason cited for this decision was the proposed restructuring of Indian football with the inception of the Indian Super League (ISL). The club's management felt that the new system would not be favorable for the traditional I-League clubs, and they decided to withdraw. Since then, Salgaocar FC has primarily been participating in local tournaments and grassroots development, but they have not returned to the national league structure. The club has also closed the operations for the senior men’s team.

2. Sporting Clube De Goa:

Sporting Clube de Goa was another Goan powerhouse in Indian football. Founded in 1999, the club quickly made a name for itself in the I-League. They finished as runners-up in the 2010-11 season, showcasing their potential to compete at the top level. However, in 2016, Sporting Clube de Goa, like Salgaocar FC, decided to withdraw from the I-League.

The club expressed concerns about the restructuring of Indian football and its impact on the traditional clubs. Since their withdrawal, Sporting Clube de Goa has maintained a presence in Goan football. The focus had shifted more towards grassroots development and nurturing local talent. However, in the 2023-24 season , they have announced their comeback in the Indian football circuit and will ply their trade in the I-League 3rd division which is scheduled to kickoff later this month

3. Dempo FC:

Dempo Sports Club, also based in Goa, has been a dominant force in Indian football for decades. Founded in 1967, they have won multiple I-League titles and have been a consistent top-tier team. However, in 2014, Dempo FC, too, decided to step away from the I-League.

The primary reason for their withdrawal was financial constraints and the club's desire to restructure its operations. After a brief hiatus, Dempo FC made a return to the Goa Professional League and the I-League Second Division. 

4. Mumbai FC:

Mumbai FC, based in the bustling city of Mumbai, was one of the clubs that aimed to make football a popular sport in the region. Founded in 2007, they participated in the I-League for nearly a decade. However, their journey was fraught with financial challenges and struggles to find success in the league.

In 2017, Mumbai FC decided to disband its senior team and exit the I-League. This decision was primarily influenced by financial instability and the inability to meet the club licensing criteria. The club once cherished by the original ‘Yellow Brigade’ has unfortunately closed it’s operations.

5. JCT:

Jagatjit Cotton & Textile Football Club, commonly known as JCT, was one of the oldest and most iconic football clubs in India. Founded in 1971 in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, JCT was a formidable team in the National Football League and later the I-League. They clinched the National Football League title in the 1996-97 season and remained a prominent presence in Indian football.

However, in 2011, JCT made the heartbreaking decision to disband their football team and withdraw from the I-League due to financial difficulties. This move was met with sadness by football enthusiasts, as the club had a rich history. After their withdrawal, the JCT management decided to focus on other aspects of their business operations.

6. Mahindra United:

Mahindra United, sponsored by the Mahindra Group, was a significant force in Indian football. Founded in 1962, the club enjoyed considerable success in the National Football League and the I-League. They were crowned champions in multiple seasons, showcasing their dominance in Indian football.

In 2010, Mahindra United decided to disband their football team and exit the I-League. The decision was influenced by the club's management's desire to restructure its operations and shift their focus to other aspects of the business. Mahindra United's exit from Indian football was a poignant moment for many fans who had witnessed their glory days.

7. Chennai City FC:

Chennai City FC, a relatively new entrant in the I-League, made a significant impact during their short stint. Founded in 1946, the club quickly rose through the ranks and won the I-League title in the 2018-19 season. However, in 2020, Chennai City FC sold a part of it stake to Swiss club FC Basel. 

The decision to transform the club and its operations was aimed at creating a pathway for Indian players to move to European football. Unfortunately, The club had to be closed down after the financial constraints at the end of 2020-21 season.