AIFF Criticises Mohun Bagan Over Withdrawal of Players From Indian Football Camp

The All India Football Federation has strongly criticised Mohun Bagan Super Giant after the club reportedly withdrew six players from the Indian football team camp just days before the Unity Cup in London.

The dispute has created fresh tension between the federation and one of India’s biggest football clubs, with the AIFF accusing Mohun Bagan of reversing its position after initially cooperating during the visa and travel process for the tournament.

India, coached by Khalid Jamil, departed from Bengaluru on Sunday with an 18-member squad for the Unity Cup. Goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, who was included in the list of probables, is expected to join the team later.

The tournament will see India face Jamaica national football team on May 27, while Nigeria national football team take on Zimbabwe national football team in the other semifinal. The winners will progress to the final on May 30, while the losing teams will compete in the third-place playoff.

Mohun Bagan defended its decision by stating that clubs are only obligated to release players during the official FIFA international window, which runs from June 1 to June 9.

However, AIFF deputy secretary general M Satyanarayan claimed the club had been fully informed about the tournament schedule well in advance and had cooperated throughout the visa application process before making a last-minute change in stance.

According to Satyanarayan, the federation had communicated all relevant details, including the dates for biometric tests and travel arrangements, directly to the club.

“The dates of the event were clearly mentioned in all communications sent to the clubs, including the schedule for biometric appointments,” Satyanarayan stated. “The Mohun Bagan players attended the biometric tests, which was obviously done with the knowledge and approval of the club.”

The AIFF also claimed that multiple follow-up emails regarding the tournament and travel details were sent to Mohun Bagan and other participating clubs, but those messages allegedly went unanswered.

The federation further revealed that it only received official confirmation from Mohun Bagan on the night of May 20 stating that the players would only be released during the FIFA window, leaving the national team management scrambling to adjust plans ahead of departure.

National teams director Subrata Paul also expressed disappointment over the situation, describing the timing of the withdrawal as a setback for the team’s preparations.

The controversy has sparked debate among Indian football supporters, with many questioning the relationship between domestic clubs and the national federation. Others have argued that clubs should prioritise player welfare and follow FIFA regulations regarding player release obligations.

The Unity Cup is seen as an important opportunity for India to gain international experience under Khalid Jamil as the team continues preparations for future continental and global competitions.

Despite the off-field dispute, the Indian football squad will now shift its focus toward performing strongly in London and building momentum ahead of upcoming international fixtures.