United Calcutta Sports Club to play first division Calcutta Football League

Sister Nivedita University ties hands with United Calcutta Sports Club to play first-division football.

United Calcutta Sports Club’s decision to join the first division of the Calcutta Football League marks a significant moment not just for Bengal but for Indian football as a whole. In an unprecedented move, the club has agreed to pay a staggering sum of ₹ 1 crore to register and compete in the local league, setting a new precedent in the realm of grassroots football.

The announcement made following a governing body meeting of the Indian Football Association (IFA), signifies a bold step forward for United Calcutta Sports Club. Backed by Sister Nivedita University, the club aims not only to participate in the league but also to establish a formidable team, investing heavily in both finances and talent acquisition.

Former Mohun Bagan star, Jose Ramirez Barreto, is to lead the club’s formation efforts. However, due to contractual obligations with Reliance, Barreto’s official association with United Calcutta Sports Club will commence once his existing contract concludes next year. Meanwhile, former Indian national team defender, Deepak Mondal, emerges as a frontrunner for the coaching role within the club.

The decision to allow United Calcutta Sports Club entry into the league comes amidst previous controversies surrounding direct entries. Diamond Harbor FC’s registration in the first division with a mere ₹ 15-lakh fee had sparked outcry and petitions from other clubs seeking similar treatment. In response, the then Secretary Joydeep Mukherjee, to maintain league functionality, mandated a hefty ₹ 1 crore fee for first-division participation.

While this move deterred many clubs in the previous season, Sister Nivedita University’s willingness to pay the required amount underscores their commitment to football development. Having been reliable supporters of IFA for years, the university engaged in discussions with IFA Secretary, Anirban Dutta, and formally petitioned for their participation, showcasing their dedication to promoting football in Kolkata.

For Sister Nivedita University, aligning with United Calcutta Sports Club not only signifies their entry into the football circuit but also their desire to establish Kolkata as a hub for sporting excellence. The prospect of a new team entering the league injects fresh excitement and anticipation into the local football scene, promising an intriguing season ahead.

As United Calcutta Sports Club gears up to make their debut in the first division, the football fraternity eagerly awaits the impact this collaboration will have on the league dynamics and the broader landscape of Indian football.

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