Complex issues but work closely with AIFF for solution: FIFA tells I-League clubs

World football's governing body FIFA has urged the agitating I-League clubs to work closely with the national federation, acknowledging that "complex issues" facing the sport here require a "prudent and measured approach".

Six I-League clubs, led by former I-League champions Minerva Punjab, had questioned the All India Football Federation's move to award the top league status to the privately-run Indian Super League (ISL).

Backing AIFF president Praful Patel's short-term roadmap for Indian football, FIFA wrote in a letter to Minerva Punjab FC, also marked to AIFF and the Asian Football Confederation, "The review performed in 2018 did indeed identify a number of complex issues which require a prudent and measured approach, encompassing the positions of all relevant stakeholders, in order to be appropriately addressed."
"We understand that based on this, the AIFF President has met the clubs and suggested a short-term solution until a more sustainable long-term solution can be found following continued consultation with all stakeholders."
"FIFA, together with the AFC, remains available to assist and support the AIFF with this process and it will be important that all clubs work closely with the AIFF as the cooperation of all stakeholders will be fundamental to ensuring that the best way forward for top-level football in India is found."