Anwar Ali's Kolkata Derby Debut Amidst Legal Storm

Anwar Ali’s Kolkata Derby Debut Amidst Legal Storm

Anwar Ali, the central defender for East Bengal, faces a daunting task in his first Kolkata derby for his new club. The match against Mohun Bagan Super Giant on Saturday is not just a sporting event but a complex legal and personal battleground for Ali.

Ali’s transfer from Mohun Bagan to East Bengal in the summer was marred by a FIFA ruling and court cases. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) initially approved Ali’s loan deal to Mohun Bagan until 2027, but FIFA’s regulations prohibit long-term loans beyond 2025. Ali cited this ruling to terminate his contract with Mohun Bagan, leading to a legal battle.

The AIFF’s Players’ Status Committee ruled in Ali’s favor, allowing him to terminate his contract but without just cause. As a result, Ali was banned for four months and ordered to pay Mohun Bagan ₹12.9 crore in compensation. However, the Delhi High Court intervened and allowed Ali to play while the AIFF committee reviewed the case.

Despite the ongoing legal uncertainty, Ali has been a key player for East Bengal and the Indian national team. His performances have drawn praise from former India coach Igor Stimac, who called him “one of the best centre-backs in Asia.”

Ali’s presence in the Kolkata derby will be closely scrutinized by both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan fans. East Bengal hopes he will provide stability to their defense, while Mohun Bagan fans will be eager to see him fail.

However, Ali’s focus remains on the game itself. “We don’t talk about such things in the changing room,” said East Bengal midfielder Saul Crespo. “That is the club’s job.”

For Ali, the Kolkata derby is not just a match but a symbol of his resilience and determination. Having overcome adversity in the past, he is ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.

Sunil Chhetri Urges Players to Avoid Controversies, Backs Anwar Ali

Sunil Chhetri Urges Players to Avoid Controversies, Backs Anwar Ali

Former Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri has expressed his support for defender Anwar Ali, who recently faced a four-month ban for contract violations. Chhetri urged players to avoid controversies and focus on their performance.

Ali’s ban stemmed from his termination of a contract with Mohun Bagan and subsequent signing with East Bengal. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) deemed his actions unjust and imposed a ban along with a compensation demand of Rs 12.90 crore.

Despite the controversy, Chhetri believes Ali is a valuable asset to the national team. “He’s one of the assets of the national team. I would want him to stay away from controversies as much as possible,” Chhetri said.

Chhetri emphasized the importance of avoiding distractions for young players. “All the national team boys, especially the ones who are upcoming and young, I want them to stay away from controversies as much as possible,” he said.

Chhetri also discussed his retirement from international football in June. He admitted to missing the game but is still adjusting to his new life. “It’s not been nice, I miss it,” he said.

Chhetri expressed confidence in India head coach Manolo Marquez’s ability to balance his roles with the national team and FC Goa. “He’ll be able to handle it,” he said. “He will know exactly what team to pick.”

Chhetri shared his experiences of fatherhood with fellow athlete Virat Kohli. “We talk a lot about kids, that’s a common topic now,” he said. However, they have not yet discussed post-retirement plans.

Chhetri remains committed to playing in the Indian Super League as long as he can contribute to his club, Bengaluru FC. “As long as I’m enjoying, as long as I’m adding value to the club, I’m here,” he said.

Anwar Ali Cleared to Play for East Bengal After AIFF Reverses Suspension

Anwar Ali Cleared to Play for East Bengal After AIFF Reverses Suspension

Anwar Ali Cleared to Play for East Bengal After AIFF Reverses Suspension

Indian defender Anwar Ali has been granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) by the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) Players Status Committee, allowing him to officially join East Bengal. This decision comes after the Delhi High Court ordered a rehearing of Ali’s case, overturning a previous four-month suspension imposed by the AIFF.

The AIFF had initially suspended Ali for allegedly terminating his contract with Mohun Bagan in an unjust manner. The federation also sought a hefty compensation of Rs 12.90 crore from Ali, Delhi FC, and East Bengal. However, the Delhi High Court intervened, criticizing the AIFF’s decision for lacking reasoning and failing to follow principles of natural justice.

The court directed the AIFF to reconsider its ruling, and the Players Status Committee has now granted Ali the NOC. This means that Ali is now free to join East Bengal and participate in the ongoing Indian Super League. He will be available for their upcoming match against Kerala Blasters on September 22 and the highly-anticipated Kolkata Derby against Mohun Bagan on October 19.

Ali’s suspension had been a major setback for both the player and East Bengal. The defender is a key member of the Indian national team and has been a consistent performer for East Bengal in the past. His return to the team will provide a significant boost to their title aspirations.

The AIFF’s decision to reverse Ali’s suspension is a positive step towards ensuring fairness and transparency in Indian football. It also highlights the importance of due process and the right to a fair hearing for players.

India Defender Anwar Ali Challenges AIFF Suspension

India Defender Anwar Ali Challenges AIFF Suspension

India Defender Anwar Ali, East Bengal, and Delhi FC Challenge AIFF Suspension

India defender Anwar Ali, along with his current club East Bengal and parent club Delhi FC, have filed a writ petition with the Delhi High Court challenging the four-month suspension imposed on the player by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The suspension stems from Anwar’s alleged “illegal termination” of his four-year contract with Mohun Bagan.

The AIFF’s Players Status Committee found Anwar guilty of breaching his contract and ordered him, East Bengal, and Delhi FC to pay a hefty compensation of Rs 12.90 crore to Mohun Bagan. The compensation includes Rs 8.40 crore for the residual value of the contract, Rs 2 crore paid to Delhi FC under a loan agreement, and Rs 2.50 crore for other damages.

Delhi FC owner Ranjit Bajaj expressed concern over the suspension, stating that it would deprive Anwar of valuable playing time. “How can we let the player lose out on matches in the coming days? You can get money back, but you can’t get the matches back once they are played,” he said.

East Bengal’s top official, Debabrata Sarkar, echoed Bajaj’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of Anwar’s participation in the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL). “We have approached the Delhi HC to ensure that Anwar can play until the AIFF’s Appeals Committee makes a decision on the matter,” Sarkar said. “The player’s career should not be affected at all cost.”

The AIFF’s Players Status Committee also banned East Bengal and Delhi FC from registering players for two transfer windows for their involvement in Anwar’s contract breach. The committee ruled that all three parties are jointly liable for the compensation amount.

Anwar’s transfer to East Bengal sparked controversy in Kolkata, with Mohun Bagan challenging the move and filing a complaint with the AIFF. The 23-year-old defender played a crucial role in Mohun Bagan’s ISL Shield-winning campaign last season, scoring three goals and providing one assist in 26 games.

The Delhi High Court is expected to hear the writ petition on Friday. The outcome of the case will have significant implications for Anwar’s career and the future of player contracts in Indian football.

Anwar Ali Suspended, Delhi FC and East Bengal Banned for Transfer Violations

Anwar Ali Suspended, Delhi FC and East Bengal Banned for Transfer Violations

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.

India Recall Ali, Singh for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

India Recall Ali, Singh for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

India’s FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign has received a boost with the return of key players Anwar Ali and Jeakson Singh. The duo, who missed the recent Asian Cup due to injuries, have been named among 35 probables for the upcoming matches against Afghanistan.

Ali, a central defender, has been out of action for an extended period due to an ankle injury. He also suffered a minor setback in an ISL match last month. Singh, a defensive midfielder, underwent left shoulder surgery in November. Both players have since returned to action for their respective Indian Super League teams.

The inclusion of Ali and Singh strengthens India’s defense, which has been a concern in recent matches. Ali’s experience and leadership will be crucial, while Singh’s ball-winning abilities will provide stability in midfield.

However, India will be without key winger Ashique Kuruniyan, who is still recovering from an ACL injury sustained last year. Kuruniyan’s absence is a blow to India’s attacking options, but the team will hope to compensate with the return of Ali and Singh.

India are aiming to reach the third round of FIFA World Cup qualifiers for the first time in their history. They are currently placed in Group A of the second round, alongside Qatar, Kuwait, and Afghanistan. The top two teams from the group will progress to the third round.

India have a chance to make history after beating Kuwait 1-0 in Kuwait City last year. Head coach Igor Stimac has promised to lead the country to its maiden third round of the FIFA World Cup qualification.

The probables for the Afghanistan matches are as follows:

Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Amrinder Singh, Phurba Tempa Lachenpa, Vishal Kaith

Defenders: Akash Mishra, Lalchungnunga, Mehtab Singh, Pritam Kotal, Rahul Bheke, Nikhil Chandrashekhar Poojary, Subhasish Bose, Narender, Anwar Ali, Roshan Singh Naorem, Amey Ganesh Ranawade, Jay Gupta

Midfielders: Anirudh Thapa, Brandon Fernandes, Liston Colaco, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Sahal Abdul Samad, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Deepak Tangri, Lalthathanga Khawlhring, Lalengmawia Ralte, Imran Khan

Forwards: Sunil Chhetri, Ishan Pandita, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh, Vikram Partap Singh, Rahul Kannoly Praveen, Nandhakumar Sekar, Isak Vanlalruatfela

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