AIFF: Mohun Bagan, East Bengal could be in ISL next season

As a part of the proposed restructuring, AIFF suggested I-League clubs could play in the ISL next season.

Mohun Bagan and East Bengal could feature in the Indian Super League next season.

A unified league is not in the offing but the All India Football Federation (AIFF) remains open to I-League clubs, most notably Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, playing the 2019-20 Indian Super League as part of a proposed restructuring.

“Provided they (I-League clubs) fulfil the ISL criteria, it is possible as part of restructuring,” AIFF general secretary Kushal Das said Wednesday.

Fulfilling franchisee fee of Rs 15 crore is one of the criteria.

While the AIFF has been looking to merge the two domestic leagues, there are a number of issues that need to be addressed.

The arrival of Quess as sponsors has given East Bengal a financial boost while Mohun Bagan is in talks with ATK to collaborate.

“Talks are in advanced stages between Mohun Bagan and ATK,” a source monitoring the development said.