In the ongoing player call-up dispute with the All India Football Federation (AIFF), Mohun Bagan Super Giant have issued a clear statement detailing their position on the matter.
The club reiterated its
respect and support for national team preparations while underlining the complications surrounding call-ups outside the official FIFA international windows.
Mohun Bagan stated, "We have always respected and supported national team preparations and remain committed to the growth of Indian football. However, the current player call-up has been issued outside the official FIFA international window. In such cases, FIFA does not provide injury protection or salary compensation should a player get injured while on national duty. "
The club emphasized its responsibility to safeguard its players' health, contractual rights, and financial security. It informed both the AIFF and players that those opting to join the national camp outside the FIFA window would need to provide written confirmation accepting that any injury and related contractual costs during recovery would be borne by them.
Mohun Bagan was keen to clarify that it had not restricted any player from reporting for national duty from November 10 onward, when the official FIFA window opens.
"The AIFF has chosen not to call up Mohun Bagan players for the national squad, and we have no further comment to make on that decision," the statement added.
"Our objective has always been to ensure that fair and appropriate protections are in place for all parties including the player, the club, and the national team," the club concluded.
This statement comes amid tensions where Mohun Bagan refused to release several players for Indian national camps due to concerns over injury risks and lack of compensation outside FIFA windows. The Mariners have also cancelled their players' training for an undefined time after their exit from the Super Cup. With the Indian Super League's future still on a limbo, the Kolkata club may resume the proceedings after clarification.
