What steps are needed to resolve ISL issues and implement promotion and relegation in Indian football?
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Synopsis
In an insightful discussion, Armando Colaco highlights the urgent need for the ISL's revival and the implementation of promotion and relegation to transform Indian football. His vision could reshape the future of the sport in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Revival of the ISL is crucial for the future of Indian football.
- Promotion and relegation can elevate the competitive nature of leagues.
- Infrastructure development is vital for nurturing talent.
- School and college tournaments need more focus for grassroots development.
- Commitment from stakeholders is essential for progress.
New Delhi, Sep 12 (NationPress) Former India head coach Armando Agnelo Colaco emphasizes that the urgent requirement for Indian football is to restart the Indian Super League (ISL). He advocates for the introduction of promotion and relegation to motivate teams to enhance their overall performance.
The 2025/26 ISL season was halted due to a deadlock between the AIFF and FSDL regarding their Masters Right Agreement (MRA). The Supreme Court has instructed the football governing body to secure a new commercial partner, and the Super Cup is set to commence the season in October.
"It's crucial to swiftly address the ISL issues so that our club football—serving as a feeder for the national team—can regain its momentum. We must also ensure enhanced playing time for our athletes and devise a dedicated roadmap for both the men’s and women’s teams to climb the international rankings.
"Success hinges on logistics, planning, and a stronger commitment from all stakeholders. We need to tackle the challenges surrounding the I-League and ISL, introducing a relegation and promotion system that incentivizes clubs in both leagues to elevate their gameplay, strategies, and tactics.
“Building infrastructure and promoting the sport to a wider audience is vital for unearthing the right talent and fostering a football-friendly culture. Currently, school and college tournaments are lacking; focusing on these would establish a fresh layer of development that would nourish the system above,” Colaco stated in an interview with IANS, facilitated by Vedanta Limited.
Colaco, a distinguished player-turned-coach, had the privilege of leading the Indian team in 2011. His coaching tenure with Sesa Goa in the 2019-20 season was marked by significant advancements in both defense and offense. He is the first Goan recipient of the Dhronacharya Award for lifetime achievement in football.
The Sesa Football Academy aims to nurture the aspirations of youth in the mining region, achieving remarkable success with over 230 graduates and support for thousands more through camps, tournaments, and clinics. It’s the only academy of its kind in Goa, significantly contributing to both state-level football and providing numerous players for the ISL and the Indian national team.
In this context, Sesa Goa has a rich legacy of empowering Goan youth, evolving them into elite athletes. The company has been instrumental in the careers of notable figures in Goan football like Denzil Franco, Adil Khan, and many others, all alumni of the Sesa Football Academy, who have enjoyed illustrious club careers and represented India at various levels.
Colaco elaborated on the impactful initiatives at the academy.
“Vedanta has established an impressive infrastructure through its Sesa Football Academy in Goa, setting the stage for advancing the academy structure. I have actively participated in the SFA at both the Sankhli and Sirsaim complexes, and the transformation in the boys emerging from the system has been extraordinary,” Colaco added.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge the insights shared by Colaco. His experience as a former head coach and his commitment to developing the sport resonate with the urgent need for reform in Indian football. The introduction of promotion and relegation could indeed elevate the competitive landscape, benefiting both leagues and ultimately enhancing the national team's performance.
NationPress
12/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Indian Super League currently on hold?
The ISL is currently on hold due to unresolved issues between the AIFF and FSDL regarding their Masters Right Agreement.
What benefits does promotion and relegation offer in football?
Promotion and relegation incentivize teams to improve their performance, creating a more competitive environment in the league.
How does the Sesa Football Academy contribute to football in Goa?
The Sesa Football Academy nurtures young talent, providing them with opportunities through training, camps, and tournaments, significantly contributing to the development of football in Goa.
Who is Armando Colaco?
Armando Colaco is a former head coach of the Indian national football team and a significant figure in developing football in India, particularly through the Sesa Football Academy.
What role does Vedanta play in Indian football?
Vedanta supports football development in India through initiatives like the Sesa Football Academy, which enhances infrastructure and training for aspiring players.
