Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have been directed to submit a formal proposal regarding the formation of a consortium to manage the league, with the deadline preceding the All India Football Federation (AIFF) Annual General Meeting (AGM) on December 20. This development arises amidst ongoing commercial challenges and uncertainty surrounding the league's operational framework.

The proposal is intended to address the commercial struggles facing the ISL, particularly in the wake of the expiration of the Marketing Rights Agreement (MRA) between the AIFF and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) on December 8. With the MRA concluded, the league currently lacks a defined commercial structure, prompting clubs to seek alternative solutions.

The AIFF has acknowledged the proposal from the ISL clubs, which suggests a framework where the clubs collectively form a consortium to own and operate the league, potentially alongside the Federation and aligned commercial, broadcast, and private investors. This model, initially proposed by Vinay Chopra, CEO of Mohun Bagan Super Giant, has garnered support from a majority of ISL clubs, excluding East Bengal.

The AIFF has expressed willingness to discuss the consortium proposal and consider its implementation. In a letter to club CEOs, the AIFF Deputy Secretary General, M. Satyanarayan, indicated the need for discussion and approval from both the Executive Committee (EXCO) and the AGM. The AIFF also referenced prior discussions held in November regarding the possibility of jointly organizing the league.

The upcoming AGM on December 20 will serve as a platform for further deliberation on the proposal. Representatives from all ISL clubs have been invited to attend the meeting, where the matter will be discussed. The AIFF has requested that clubs submit their proposals to the ministry, ensuring that it can be thoroughly reviewed during the AGM.

The league's current situation has led clubs to seek intervention from the Supreme Court and the Sports Ministry; however, a breakthrough is yet to be achieved. The proposal for a club-led consortium has emerged as a potential solution to the ongoing commercial uncertainty, offering a new roadmap for the ISL. The AIFF has indicated that it is open to exploring this option, with the final decision hinging on discussions and approvals during the AGM.

Meanwhile, the Indian Women's League is set to proceed without a sponsor due to an unmet agreement with Capri Sports. Despite these challenges, ISL clubs are hopeful that their consortium plans will be approved, paving the way for a new era in Indian football.