ISL clubs except East Bengal’s Mohun Bagan SG are likely to reject AIFF’s OCI proposal

The All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) decision on Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) may not have gone down well with the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs as most of them are likely to reject the proposal.

As per the existing rules in the ISL, each club can register a maximum of six foreigners, four of whom can be on the field at any given time. But the AIFF stated in its special general meeting on June 20 that “clubs may field a starting XI consisting of three foreign players and one OCI player.”

Now, after a meeting of all club officials, all except East Bengal and Mohun Bagan Super Giant are likely to oppose AIFF’s decision.

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The unanimous decision has two main reasons. Firstly, the clubs are unclear on the exact criteria and process for securing the OCIs and secondly, a higher salary for them could also disrupt the wage structure of teams, many of which are struggling financially.

“For such players (OCIs), at least a season in India appears to be a viable route and that is something that clubs will discuss implementing,” a source aware of the developments had earlier said Sports stars.

“At least one or two players of Indian origin can create a pool of 25 to 28 players and the AIFF will also try to create its own list from a similar pool so that such players can eventually play for India.”

However, there is a chance for the clubs to accept the proposal, but they would prefer clarity on the salary cap and would prefer the rule to be introduced from the 2027-2028 season.

With the next ISL season starting on September 4, it remains to be seen how the Federation will react to such a development with less than three months to go.

Published on June 21, 2026