In a significant development in Indian football, Anwar Ali, the talented centre-back, has been handed a four-month ban by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). This decision comes after Anwar was found guilty of illegally terminating his contract with Indian Super League (ISL) club Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG). As a result, Mohun Bagan is set to receive a substantial compensation of Rs 12.90 crore.
Background of Anwar Ali’s Case
Anwar Ali, who played a pivotal role in Mohun Bagan’s ISL Shield-winning campaign last season, unilaterally terminated his contract with the club to sign a lucrative five-year deal with their arch-rivals, East Bengal. This move sparked controversy and led Mohun Bagan to file a complaint with the AIFF’s Players’ Status Committee (PSC). The PSC, after thorough deliberation, found Anwar guilty of breaching his contract and imposed the ban.
Details of the Ban and Compensation
The AIFF’s decision to ban Anwar Ali for four months is a significant one. During this period, Anwar will be restricted from playing in any official matches for his club. However, he will still be eligible to play for the Indian national team. The ban is effective from the date of notification of the decision.
In addition to the ban, the AIFF has ruled that Mohun Bagan is entitled to a compensation of Rs 12.90 crore. This amount includes Rs 8.40 crore for the residual value of Anwar’s contract, Rs 2 crore already paid to Delhi FC under a loan agreement, and Rs 2.50 crore for other damages suffered by the club.
The AIFF’s ruling also affects East Bengal and Delhi FC, the two clubs involved in Anwar’s transfer. Both clubs have been banned from registering new players for two transfer windows – the 2024-25 winter window and the 2025-26 summer window. This decision is expected to have a significant impact on their squad-building plans for the upcoming seasons.
The Anwar Saga seems to be quite expensive for East Bengal FC. The all over price will be nearing 33 Cr. A costly ground breaking deal. Anwal Ali's bann is another point of concern . Things are not going well and Anwar Ali saga could really affect the performance as well #EBFC pic.twitter.com/gsftptuCm8
— 90rfootball (@90rfootball) September 10, 2024
Anwar Ali has been one of the most promising defenders in Indian football. He made his mark in the ISL with his solid defensive skills and ability to score crucial goals. Last season, he played 26 matches for Mohun Bagan, scoring three goals and providing one assist. His performances earned him a call-up to the Indian national team, where he has continued to impress.
Despite the setback, Anwar Ali remains a key player for the Indian national team. His ban from club football will give him time to reflect and come back stronger. The AIFF’s decision to allow him to play for the national team during the ban period is a positive aspect, as it ensures that he remains in competitive form.
Also Read: Sarfaraz Khan to Play Another Round of Duleep Trophy Before Bangladesh Test
