Copyright timesnownews
East Bengal midfielder Souvik Chakrabarti has delivered a strong message on the state of Indian football, questioning the AIFF's governance and the uncertainty surrounding the ISL structure, following the reported failure of the league's new bid process. In a heartfelt public statement titled "For the love of Indian football", Chakrabarti said the current situation is more than just a financial or administrative issue; it reflects a systemic problem that affects every level of the game. "The failure of the ISL bid is not just a business setback. For me, it shows how deep the problems in Indian football governance really go. This is not only about one league. When the top tier of Indian football itself stands uncertain, it affects everything from grassroots to the national level. Behind every club and match are players, coaches, support staff, countless fans, and so many people working quietly behind the scenes to keep the game alive. Their dedication deserves clear direction, accountability, and belief in the system they give everything for." Calling for reform, Chakrabarti urged football authorities to prioritise transparency, planning, and unity in rebuilding the sport's framework. "What we need now is transparency, planning, and unity. From players and professionals to fans and everyone working on and off the field, every single stakeholder deserves a structure that values their passion and helps the game move forward. I really hope the issue is resolved at the earliest, for the future of Indian football, not just the top tier. Souvik Chakrabarti, For the love of Indian football." Earlier, the All India Football Federation on Friday said it has not received any bids for the commercial rights of the Indian Super League, marking another setback for Indian football’s top tier as the submission deadline closed.
