ISL clubs hesitant to commit to Super Cup amid financial uncertainty

A few ISL clubs are reluctant to play the Super Cup before any clarity on ISL.

With the new season around the corner, uncertainty looms over the Super Cup as several Indian Super League (ISL) clubs remain unconvinced about their participation.

The tournament, scheduled by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) between October 25 and November 22, was meant to bring together 13 ISL teams and three I-League sides.

However, delays in pre-season schedules, unresolved salary structures, and a lack of clarity regarding commercial rights have left many clubs in doubt.

“We are awaiting confirmation from four (ISL) clubs; some clubs have asked for more time to respond, others have raised queries. We are speaking with the clubs individually and should be able to confirm soon.”, a senior official from AIFF was quoted by TOI.

Also Read: Super Cup to be held from October 25 to November 22 in a ‘phased manner’

ISL Clubs demand certainty and clarity before commitment

AIFF officials have confirmed that four ISL clubs are yet to provide their final approval for the competition. Kerala Blasters, Mumbai City, Chennaiyin FC, and Odisha FC are among the hesitant parties, raising questions about timing, expenses, and long-term benefits. While some clubs have agreed conditionally, others continue to push back on the financial and logistical details.

East Bengal, meanwhile, have officially sought clarification from the AIFF on key issues, particularly whether the Super Cup winner will gain India’s second continental spot and how many foreign players will be permitted. This uncertainty has prompted even participating clubs to tread carefully.

From the I-League, teams such as Inter Kashi and Real Kashmir have shown strong interest. Should more slots open up, Gokulam Kerala and Dempo SC are among the names that could step in to fill the void.

Financial Concerns Delay Decisions

At the heart of the hesitation is the financial equation. Many Indian Super League (ISL) clubs feel constrained without a finalised commercial structure in place.

Earlier in a joint letter to the AIFF, ten clubs recognized the importance of need for a stable and transparent commercial partner. They also highlighted that football in India cannot rely solely on short-term deals and requires long-term planning backed by expertise in sports management.

The AIFF, for its part, has already floated an RFQ (Request for Qualification) for agencies interested in handling the commercial rights of the ISL. Bidding is expected to take place on September 15, but the new partner may not be confirmed until late October or November—just as the Super Cup is set to begin. This tight timeline has left clubs uneasy about budgeting for travel, player bonuses, and operational costs.

Why the Super Cup should be played by ISL clubs?

Despite the concerns, the Super Cup remains important for ISL clubs, both as a preparatory tournament and as a pathway to continental football. Winning the competition could potentially open the door to Asia’s second-tier club tournaments, giving players invaluable exposure.

The AIFF has assured that the tournament will respect FIFA international windows to avoid clashes with national team commitments. The Indian national football team will play the AFC Asian Cup Qualifying fixture against Bangladesh in November.

To ensure ISL clubs do not struggle with the absence of national team players, the competition will take a break before its conclusion on November 22.

Still, until financial and structural issues are resolved, many clubs are holding back from confirming their full participation.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.