Should ISL Clubs Release 13 Players for National Camp?
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Synopsis
The AIFF calls on ISL clubs to release 13 players for the national camp in Bengaluru, led by new head coach Khalid Jamil. This crucial step is vital for India's preparations for the CAFA Nations Cup and upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. Will the clubs comply with this urgent request?
Key Takeaways
- The AIFF is urging ISL clubs to release 13 players for national duty.
- Khalid Jamil is the new head coach of the Indian football team.
- India will participate in the CAFA Nations Cup in August.
- Upcoming matches against Tajikistan, Iran, and Afghanistan are crucial.
- Participation in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers is also at stake.
New Delhi, Aug 15 (NationPress) The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has called upon Indian Super League (ISL) clubs to allow the release of players selected for the current national team camp in Bengaluru, led by the newly appointed head coach Khalid Jamil.
Jamil's inaugural assignment with the Blue Tigers will be the CAFA Nations Cup, where India is set to compete against hosts Tajikistan (August 29), Iran (September 1), and Afghanistan (September 4) in Group B. In the October FIFA Window, India will engage in two vital AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying matches against Singapore (October 9 and 14).
The AIFF expressed gratitude towards Jamshedpur FC for releasing Jamil, highlighting it as a ‘gesture of national interest.’
“The Indian Senior Men's National Team has commenced their camp from 15 to 25 August 2025 in Bengaluru, preparing for their first appearance in the CAFA Nations Cup. The AIFF acknowledges the support from Jamshedpur FC for releasing Khalid Jamil despite an ongoing tournament - a significant gesture for national interest. The AIFF calls on all clubs to release National Team players for this crucial task, which also gears up the squad for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers against Singapore (away & home),” stated the AIFF.
The football governing body also released a list of 13 players from four clubs who have yet to be released by their clubs, urging them to do so promptly. From Mohun Bagan SG, the players include Anirudh Thapa, Deepak Tangri, Lalengmawia, Liston Colaco, Manvir Singh, Sahal Abdul Samad, and Vishal Kaith. East Bengal has not released Anwar Ali, Jeakson Singh, and Mahesh Singh Naorem. Jamshedpur FC continues to hold back Manvir Singh and Albino Gomes, while NorthEast United FC has yet to release Jithin MS.
In the meantime, the India U23 Men’s National Team has launched its training camp in Bengaluru since August 1, gearing up for the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers scheduled in Qatar from September 3 to 9. As part of their preparations, the U23 side will head to Kuala Lumpur on August 23 for two friendly matches against the U23 Iraq National Team.
The AIFF has requested cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure full player participation, as 10 players have not yet joined the U23 Men’s National Team camp. From Jamshedpur FC, Mohammed Sanan K and Nikhil Barla are yet to report.
Mohun Bagan SG has not released Dippendu Biswas, Suhail Ahmad Bhat, Priyansh Dubey, and Tekcham Abhishek Singh. From NorthEast United FC, Macarton Louis Nickson, Parthib Sundar Gogoi, Huidrom Thoi Singh, and Dipesh Chauhan have also not participated in the camp.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the importance of national unity in sports. The AIFF's call for ISL clubs to release players is not just a plea; it is a necessity for India's aspirations on the international football stage. Aligning club interests with national objectives is vital for our footballing future.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the AIFF requesting ISL clubs to release players?
The AIFF is requesting the release to ensure that players can participate in the national camp, which is essential for preparation for the CAFA Nations Cup and AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.
Who is the new head coach of the Indian national team?
The new head coach of the Indian national team is Khalid Jamil, who has recently taken over the role.
When will India play in the CAFA Nations Cup?
India will play in the CAFA Nations Cup starting from August 29, with matches against Tajikistan, Iran, and Afghanistan.
What is the significance of the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers?
The AFC Asian Cup qualifiers are crucial as they determine India's participation in the prestigious tournament scheduled for 2027.
How many players have not been released yet?
A total of 13 players from four clubs have yet to be released by their respective ISL clubs for the national camp.
