AIFF-FSDL agreement could pave way for ISL return in Nov | Football News

BENGALURU: There is more light at the end of the tunnel with regard to the start of this season’s Indian Super League as the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) concluded a crucial meeting here on Monday.“Both parties approached the discussions in a constructive and positive spirit and expressed confidence in arriving at a mutually agreed proposal that will ensure the continued development and progress of football in India,” AIFF said in a statement. “The joint proposal will be submitted before the Supreme Court on Aug 28,” the AIFF said,adding that the parties will make no further comment as the matter is sub-judice.Meanwhile, sources told TOI that the two parties will meet again in the coming days to finalize the proposal that will be presented in the court. They said that FSDL has agreed to start the season and run it for another year. “As per the master agreement FSDL has to pay Rs 25 crore to AIFF till Dec this year. For the remainder of the season, the AIFF wants Rs 25 crore matching last year’s payment but FSDL is bargaining for a lesser payment in the tune of Rs 10-15 crore,” they said.Sources said the latest and most constructive negotiations would likely see the ISL kick starting in OctoberNovember, almost a two month delay compared to last season, with I-league winners Inter Kashi making their debut as the 14th team.“There were talks of holding the Super Cup before the start of ISL but that looks like a non-starter with six of the 13 teams yet to begin their operations this season. The expected scenario could be a 6-8 weeks pre-season followed by the start of the league in OctNov,” they said.Experts who tracked the developments also said the ISL could even be beamed on a new platform. “Last year it was on Jio-Hotstar but there are talks to find new takers to telecast the ISL for the coming season. But it is still not clear whether there will be buyers for any short-term offer,” they added.Sources also said it is only a matter of time before the new agreement is finalised. “The new turn of events came only after the clubs and few players approached the court through the amicus curiae. What is in front of both parties is simple. They have to ensure the minimum number of matches as prescribed by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for the clubs to be eligible to play in AFC competitions. The feelers from Monday’s meeting is a green signal to all the ISL clubs to hit the active mode button.”