AIFF Refutes Claims on Mohun Bagan SG Player Releases for Unity Cup
AIFF Responds to Player Release Controversy
New Delhi [India] - The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has categorically rejected media reports suggesting that players from Mohun Bagan SG were released to join the Senior National Men's team for the Unity Cup. This clarification comes in light of a statement from AIFF Deputy Secretary General M Satyanarayan.
According to Satyanarayan, a club official claimed that Mohun Bagan SG had sent a letter to the AIFF six days prior, demanding accountability for any injuries sustained by players outside the FIFA window, and alleged that the federation failed to respond. He emphasized, “No such correspondence exists. Since April 10, the AIFF has communicated with all clubs regarding India’s participation in the Unity Cup in London.”
Furthermore, the AIFF addressed claims made by the Mohun Bagan SG official regarding the federation's responsibility for player medical expenses. Satyanarayan highlighted that in the 2025-26 season alone, the AIFF has invested nearly ₹15 lakhs on medical treatments for injuries incurred by players across all national teams, affirming their commitment to player welfare.
He also recounted how the club had initially cooperated with the biometric VISA process but later reversed their stance. The AIFF had provided all necessary details about the event and biometric tests, which were scheduled at the club's convenience. Mohun Bagan SG players participated in the biometric tests, indicating the club's awareness of the arrangements.
Despite sending two additional emails with event details to Mohun Bagan SG, the club did not acknowledge them. On May 20, the AIFF received an email from the club stating that their players would only be released during the FIFA window, suggesting that the AIFF coordinate with the players accordingly.
Out of the seven players called up from Mohun Bagan SG, six reported to the camp in Bengaluru on May 22, while one was injured. The players communicated with the national team manager, Velu, indicating that the club had permitted their participation. However, the following morning, the club instructed them via a WhatsApp group to refrain from attending training sessions outside the FIFA International Window. After discussions, the players informed the national team management of the club's directive, leading to emotional departures from the camp.
AIFF’s Director of National Teams, Subrata Paul, expressed disappointment that players who had completed their biometric VISA procedures were unable to travel at such a late stage. He acknowledged the pressures clubs face but noted that earlier communication regarding any concerns would have allowed for better arrangements, ensuring that no player missed this significant opportunity.
Paul lamented the broader implications of this situation, not just for the affected players but also for others who could have been selected in their stead. He reflected on similar challenges faced in past tournaments and expressed hope for improved collaboration in the future to benefit Indian football and aspiring players.
Timeline of Events:
April 10: AIFF's initial communication to Mohun Bagan SG regarding player requirements for the international program.
April 23: Confirmation of biometric appointments for Mohun Bagan players at the VFS Centre in Kolkata.
First Week of May: Notification of the tri-nation tournament in Tajikistan, with departure details shared.
Post-ISL Final Round Draw: Clubs informed of player reporting requirements for the national camp.
Night Before ISL Final: Mohun Bagan SG raises objections about player releases.
May 22: Players arrive in Bengaluru for the national camp.
May 23: Players ordered by Mohun Bagan SG to leave the national camp.