FC Goa first-team players and techical staff take pay cuts amid condensed ISL season
The Gaurs and ISL clubs suffered from the earlier uncertainty over the league start.
Indian Super League (ISL) club FC Goa announced on Thursday that first-team players and technical staff have agreed to take temporary pay cuts ahead of the upcoming season, signalling the aftermath of the earlier uncertainty surrounding the league start.
The decision comes following a tough couple of days for the Gaurs, who have lost key foreign players before the start of the new ISL campaign.
In a message released by the club on its official social media platforms, FC Goa said it had held “honest and difficult conversations” internally as it assessed the impact of the delayed season. Those discussions led to what the club described as a “selfless” gesture from its players and technical staff, who collectively chose to reduce their remuneration during the uncertain period.
FC Goa players and staff make the sacrifice
The club added that it was “deeply humbled” by the show of unity and commitment from the squad and staff, emphasising that the move reflected shared responsibility rather than obligation. FC Goa did not disclose the extent or duration of the pay cuts but indicated they are linked directly to the delay and lack of clarity around the start of the ISL season.
The move comes after the AIFF announced a start date for ISL in February; however, it seems the damage has been done prior, as they manage budgets, contracts and preseason planning. The development highlights the broader strain that Indian football clubs faced, and how they rely heavily on centralised league revenues and sponsorships tied to the ISL calendar.
Are the pay cuts a good sign for ISL games?
With matches yet to be scheduled, several teams have been forced to reassess short-term financial commitments. FC Goa, one of the ISL’s more stable and competitive clubs in recent seasons, framed the move as a reflection of its internal culture.
The statement stressed that the club is “more than results on the pitch,” pointing instead to values of belief, people and standing together in difficult moments. The club also expressed gratitude to its players and staff for “fighting for the badge” and reaffirmed its intention to move forward as a united group despite the uncertainty.
While the ISL organisers continue to work toward finalising the season timeline, FC Goa’s announcement underscores the human element behind the league’s logistical challenges. For now, the club and its squad appear focused on navigating the pause collectively, with the hope that clarity and competitive football will soon return.
As the wait continues for league start, FC Goa’s gesture may set a precedent for how other ISL clubs manage internal solidarity during one of the more unsettled periods in the league’s history.
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.
A sports journalist for over three years, Anuj has been following and covering Indian Football leagues for years. He specialises in in-depth knowledge of the game and its players. He Completed his Master's in Media and Communication Studies in 2025.