Indian defender Anwar Ali’s controversial transfer from Mohun Bagan Super Giant to East Bengal has resulted in severe consequences for all parties involved. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has imposed a four-month suspension on Ali, while his parent club Delhi FC and East Bengal have been barred from registering new players for two transfer windows.
The AIFF’s Players’ Statue Committee (PSC) found Ali guilty of terminating his four-year loan deal with Mohun Bagan Super Giant without proper authorization. As a result, Ali, Delhi FC, and East Bengal have been ordered to pay a combined compensation of Rs 12.90 crores to Mohun Bagan.
Ali’s suspension is a significant blow to the Indian national team, where he has been a key member of the defense. The 23-year-old has played 22 matches for the Blue Tigers since making his debut in 2022, helping them win the Tri-Nation series, Intercontinental Cup, and SAFF Championship.
Ali’s rise to prominence began with the Minerva Academy before he joined the AIFF’s developmental side in 2017. He made his Indian Super League debut in 2021 and has played 46 matches in the league so far.
Despite being a center-back, Ali has also shown his attacking prowess, scoring three goals and providing one assist in 26 matches last season. He was also the top scorer for Delhi FC in the 2021 I-League Qualifiers with four goals.
In the 2023-24 ISL season, Ali registered four clean sheets, 18 interceptions, 17 tackles, 45 successful duels, 19 successful aerial duels, 9 blocks, 67 recoveries, 52 clearances, and 549 successful passes in 16 matches.
The AIFF’s decision to punish Ali, Delhi FC, and East Bengal sends a strong message that contractual obligations must be respected in Indian football. The consequences of this case will likely have a lasting impact on the transfer market and the conduct of players and clubs in the future.
