The unanimous decision stems from two primary reasons. First, the clubs are unclear about what the exact criteria and process are to bring in the OCIs and second, an increased salary for them could also disrupt the wage structure of teams, many of which are financially struggling. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) decision about 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, every club can sign up to six foreigners, of whom four can be on the field at a point of time. But the AIFF, in its Special General Meeting on June 20, stated that “clubs may field a starting eleven comprising three foreign players and one OCI player.”

Now, after a meeting of all the club executives, all but East Bengal and Mohun Bagan Super Giant are likely to oppose AIFF’s move.

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The unanimous decision stems from two primary reasons. First, the clubs are unclear about what the exact criteria and process are to bring in the OCIs and second, an increased salary for them could also disrupt the wage structure of teams, many of which are financially struggling.

“For such players (OCIs), at least a season in India looks like a feasible pathway, and that is something that clubs will discuss to implement,” a source privy to the developments had earlier told Sportstar.

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

There is, however, a chance for the clubs to accept the proposal, but they would prefer clarity on the salary cap and would rather to see the rule implemented from the 2027-28 season.

With the next ISL season locked to begin on September 4, it remains to be seen how the Federation reacts to such a development with less than three months in hand.

Published on Jun 21, 2026