Indian football crisis deepens again as ISL clubs seek salary cuts from players

India’s football and ISL future are facing a deep financial and organisational crisis, with players now anxious about salary cuts even as Indian Super League (ISL) clubs argue the move is essential for survival.

After waiting nearly nine months for domestic football to resume, players initially felt relieved when the ISL announced on Tuesday that the new season would begin on February 14. However, that relief quickly turned into concern as several clubs asked players to accept pay cuts of up to 25 per cent ahead of a shortened season that will have 72 fewer matches than the 2024–25 edition.

As per a report of the Indian Express, players are saying that clubs are demanding a “plain yes or no” to the revised salary structure, without room for discussion. One Indian player said they were told that if they did not “understand the situation, then we might not play in the league”.

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Salary cuts amid uncertainty over ISL finances

The crisis stems from the expiration of the 15-year commercial rights deal between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Reliance Sports on December 8, 2025. When the AIFF floated a tender for a new partner, it failed to attract a single bid, leaving the upcoming season without a broadcast deal.

Although the season was originally meant to start in September last year, months of negotiations followed. Eventually, all 14 ISL clubs agreed to take part in a single-leg home-and-away format, but only after intervention from Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. During discussions with the sports ministry, AIFF and franchises, club officials highlighted rising costs, especially player wages.

ISL clubs spend up to 70 per cent of their budgets on salaries. While the official salary cap is Rs 16.5 crore, clubs often spend more to stay competitive. India internationals, due to a lack of top homegrown talent, earn over Rs 1 crore annually. With no broadcast revenue this season, clubs say these wages are no longer sustainable.

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At least three clubs have asked players earning over Rs 1 crore to take a 20–25 per cent cut, while others may face cuts of 10–15 per cent. The government, AIFF and clubs agreed that players would be “requested” to accept reductions, as unilateral cuts could invite FIFA sanctions.

Bengaluru FC owner Parth Jindal said on X, "Tremendous sacrifice from all clubs is being asked for to play the ISL in its current format. The repercussions if we don’t have a league are very worrying. Would like to take this opportunity to thank the Honourable Sports Minister for his intervention and his proposal. Truly hope the players understand the additional financial burden on the clubs and agree to also sacrifice as we are all in this together.”