India men’s football head coach Khalid Jamil has urged the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Indian Super League (ISL) clubs to work together in resolving the ongoing dispute over player release for national duty. Jamil stressed that “constructive dialogue” is the only way to balance club commitments with international responsibilities.
Key players missing from camp
Jamil had named 30 probables for the preparatory camp ahead of India’s Asian Cup qualifiers against Singapore on October 9 (away) and October 14 (home). However, 14 players — including Bengaluru FC captain Sunil Chhetri — have not yet joined the camp, with their clubs delaying release. One more player is unavailable due to illness, leaving the squad short in key areas.
At present, only 18 players are training in Bengaluru, including Brandon Fernandes, Asheer Akhtar and Farukh Choudhary, who were added to cover the gaps. Jamil admitted that the lack of defenders has hurt preparations, with just two specialist defenders available so far.
Clubs yet to release players
Apart from Bengaluru FC, East Bengal and Punjab FC have also held back their players. The 14 footballers are expected to join the camp later this month. Jamil, however, chose not to call up players from Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa, acknowledging their AFC Champions League Two commitments.
“With Mohun Bagan and Goa, the situation was clear from the start. We respected their continental fixtures and planned accordingly. Similar clarity is needed with all clubs,” Jamil said.
Asian Cup qualifiers ahead
India is set to face Singapore in a crucial double-header in October as part of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 third-round qualifiers. The Blue Tigers currently have one point from two games and are chasing group leaders Singapore, who sit on four points.
Jamil underlined the importance of the fixtures, saying positive results could boost India’s qualification hopes while setbacks would make the path “much more difficult.”
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