Read Bengali: কলকাতা লিগ নিয়ে কতটা আশাবাদী দীপেন্দু বিশ্বাস?

However, the momentum did not continue in the Super Cup, where Mohun Bagan failed to progress beyond the group stage. The focus then shifted to the Indian Super League (ISL). Although the team started the season positively, they later dropped crucial points in several important matches, including a setback against Mumbai City FC.

The single-leg format of the tournament made the title race even more competitive. Despite winning their final match after coming from behind, Mohun Bagan could not retain the ISL crown, as East Bengal FC secured the title on goal difference.

Now, the Mariners are looking to put last season behind them and focus on regaining their rhythm in the upcoming campaign.

Reserve Team Begins CFL Preparations

As part of that preparation, Mohun Bagan’s reserve side started training for the Calcutta Football League (CFL) from Wednesday evening. Several players caught attention during the opening session, including Raj Basfore, Tanmoy and defender Dipendu Biswas.

Dipendu, who did not receive many opportunities with the senior team during the previous ISL season, is expected to play an important role in the CFL campaign under coach Bastab Roy.

The Indian defender featured only in a handful of matches during the ISL, Durand Cup and Super Cup last season. However, the coaching staff reportedly has high expectations from him heading into the new campaign.

“We Want to Become CFL Champions”

After the team’s first training session, Dipendu Biswas expressed optimism about Mohun Bagan’s chances in the Calcutta Football League.

“We have not won the CFL title for many years. But we are hopeful that this time we will perform well and become champions,” he said while speaking to reporters.

The defender also highlighted the balance within the squad and stressed the importance of guiding younger players in the team.

“Our team has many good and experienced footballers. At the same time, there are a few juniors as well. We will try to motivate them,” Dipendu added.

Big Expectations From Young Players

Mohun Bagan’s management and coaching staff are expected to use the Calcutta Football League as a platform to evaluate young and fringe players ahead of the bigger domestic competitions later in the season.

For players like Dipendu Biswas, the CFL could prove to be a crucial opportunity to earn regular game time and push for a stronger role in the senior setup.

With preparations already underway, the Green-and-Maroon brigade will now look to end their long wait for another Calcutta Football League title and build momentum for the upcoming season.

বাংলায় পড়তে ক্লিক করুন: বুধবার থেকেই অনুশীলন শুরু করল বাগান, কী বললেন বাস্তব রায় ?

The CFL is set to begin later this month, and the Green-and-Maroon brigade will be aiming to end their long wait for the title. Mohun Bagan last won the competition in 2018. Despite producing strong performances in recent years and winning the Reliance Foundation Development League, the club has failed to add another major domestic trophy to its cabinet.

This season, the team has begun training under the guidance of coach Bastab Roy, with Nilanjan Guha serving as assistant coach.

Several Young Players Attend Training

A number of promising footballers were present during Wednesday’s training session, including Dipendu Biswas and returning defender Raj Basfore. Players like Roshan and Tanmoy also took part in the session as preparations officially got underway.

Speaking about the early start to training, Bastab Roy explained that beginning preparations in advance would help the squad gain valuable time before the competition begins.

“We started training early so that we can have more time in hand. The players who featured in the ISL finished their season on May 21, so they need some minimum rest. Everything has been communicated to them and they will gradually join the squad,” Roy said.

CFL Could Become Platform for ISL Players

Bastab Roy also spoke about the importance of the Kolkata League for players who did not receive regular game time in the Indian Super League.

“Those who did not play regularly in the ISL now have a platform to prove themselves here. By performing well, they can earn another opportunity to return to the ISL setup. This is beneficial for them,” he stated.

His comments indicate that the CFL could serve as an important development stage for young and fringe players looking to break into Mohun Bagan’s senior squad in the future.

Focus Currently on Fitness and Preparation

When asked about his new responsibility, Bastab Roy avoided discussing long-term expectations and instead emphasized the importance of preparing the players properly for the season ahead.

The Bengali coach made it clear that his immediate priority is to ensure that every player reaches full match fitness before competitive action begins.

With Mohun Bagan eager to regain domestic dominance, the early start to training reflects the club’s determination to build momentum before the new campaign officially kicks off.

বাংলায় পড়তে ক্লিক করুন : চেন্নাইয়িন থেকে সবুজ-মেরুনে ফিরতে চলেছেন এই ফুটবলার

The club also missed out on retaining the Indian Super League (ISL) title despite remaining in contention until the final stages of the season. Although Mohun Bagan secured victory in their last league match, East Bengal clinched the championship on goal difference.

With the new season approaching, the focus has now shifted towards rebuilding the squad and preparing for upcoming tournaments.

Mohun Bagan Youth Team Begins Preparations

The club’s youth squad is set to begin preparations for the upcoming Calcutta Football League (CFL) this week. At the same time, transfer-related developments have started attracting attention around the Maidan.

According to reports, Mohun Bagan are preparing to bring back one of their former young talents, defender Raj Basfore.

Return After Chennaiyin FC Spell

Raj Basfore joined Chennaiyin FC last season in search of greater opportunities. During his time with the southern club, the young Indian defender featured in major domestic competitions, including the ISL and the Super Cup.

Despite gaining valuable experience in Chennaiyin colours, Basfore is now reportedly set to return to Mohun Bagan.

The move is expected to strengthen the club’s defensive options, particularly within its developmental setup, while also providing the player with an opportunity to continue his growth in a familiar environment.

CFL and Durand Cup Opportunities Await

The upcoming Calcutta Football League could provide Basfore with a platform to re-establish himself within the Mohun Bagan system. Club observers believe he may also get opportunities in the Durand Cup, depending on squad requirements and his performances.

With Mohun Bagan aiming to bounce back strongly in the new season, the return of promising young players like Raj Basfore could play an important role in the club’s long-term plans.

All eyes will now be on how the defender performs if the move is officially completed and whether he can make a significant impact in the green-and-maroon jersey once again.

Read Bengali: ISL অন্ধকারে! অনিশ্চিত ১৫০ ফুটবলারের ভবিষ্যৎ

Among them are more than 20 players who currently represent or have recently represented the Indian national team. With no clarity on the structure or timeline of the upcoming season, many of these players are now facing an uncertain future.

Contract Expiries Add to Concerns

A large number of player contracts expired on Sunday. Under normal circumstances, clubs and players would already be negotiating renewals or new deals before the start of a new campaign. However, this year the situation is far from normal.

Ongoing disagreements between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and ISL clubs have created uncertainty over how the next season will be conducted. As a result, clubs have been reluctant to finalize squad plans, leaving many players in limbo.

Fallout from Expired Master Rights Agreement

The 2025-26 season itself was conducted under unusual circumstances after the expiry of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between AIFF and its former commercial partners. Instead of the traditional full home-and-away format, the league was shortened and featured 14 teams in a revised structure.

With the season now over, many players have officially become free agents, meaning they are free to negotiate and sign with any club. AIFF has set the player registration window from June 12 to August 31.

National Team Stars Also Affected

Several high-profile Indian footballers are among those whose contracts have expired. These include India captain Sandesh Jhingan and experienced defender Rahul Bheke, both of whom have been key figures for the national team over the years.

A number of other established ISL players are also facing similar uncertainty as clubs delay recruitment decisions.

Mohun Bagan Awaiting Clarity

ISL giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant are reportedly seeking clarity from AIFF regarding the format of the upcoming season. Club officials want to know whether the competition will return to a full-length format or continue in a shortened version.

The answer will play a major role in determining the club’s budget, transfer strategy and squad planning.

Mohun Bagan are also expected to part ways with several foreign players, including Tom Aldred, Dimitri Petratos and Jason Cummings, signaling significant changes ahead.

Players Could Be the Biggest Losers

Football experts believe players may suffer the most from the current uncertainty. As free agents, many footballers could find themselves in a weaker negotiating position than usual.

In a stable market, strong performances often help players secure improved contracts and higher salaries. However, with clubs unsure about budgets and league commitments, teams are likely to offer lower-value deals, reducing players’ bargaining power.

AIFF and Clubs Yet to Reach Agreement

The core issue remains disagreements over the league’s future commercial structure. ISL clubs want greater control over the league’s financial interests, while AIFF is keen to maintain its own stake and authority.

Although club representatives and AIFF officials met in Kolkata last month, the discussions failed to produce a breakthrough.

A recent Special General Meeting decided that AIFF’s Executive Committee would continue discussions regarding a new Master Rights Agreement. Only after approval from the federation’s General Body will a final decision be taken on the league’s commercial partner and future structure.

Until then, the future of India’s premier football league and the careers of more than 150 footballers remain clouded by uncertainty.

The hosts looked in early trouble when Dani Ramirez gave Punjab the lead in the 13th minute. But Jamie Maclaren responded brilliantly before the half-hour mark, levelling the scores at 1-1 going into the break.

Read Bengali: কামিন্সের শেষ মুহূর্তের গোলে কামব্যাক, পাঞ্জাবকে হারাল বাগান

After the restart, Punjab struck again in the 60th minute through a stunning volley from Nsungusi Effiong, putting the visitors 2-1 ahead.

Just when it seemed Mohun Bagan were staring at defeat, substitute Sahal Abdul Samad produced pure magic in the 74th minute. From nearly 30 yards out, he unleashed a rocket that looped over the defence and dipped into the net — a genuine goal-of-the-season contender that made it 2-2.

The drama wasn’t over. Deep into stoppage time (90+1′), Jason Cummings stepped up for a free-kick and delivered a superb set-piece that sailed past everyone and found the back of the net, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans.

It was a classic comeback win built on resilience and quality finishing when it mattered most. Mohun Bagan showed real fight and character in front of their passionate Kolkata crowd.

On Thursday, after the training session, Australian World Cupper Jason Cummings jokingly asked the reporters waiting outside, “Has Messi arrived already?” Many of his teammates also echoed the same curiosity. The reason is simple—Messi is expected to stay in the same hotel where the foreign players of Mohun Bagan currently reside. Hearing this, another Australian, Dimitri Petratos, laughed and said, “Wish I could share a room with Messi!”

On the same day, Mohun Bagan officially began a new chapter under Spanish coach Sergio Lobera. He conducted a rigorous 90-minute training session on his very first day. However, Liston Colaco and Sahal Abdul Samad were absent due to personal reasons, while Apuiya missed training because of fever.

Interestingly, while the players were buzzing with Messi mania, Lobera remained completely calm. Having been the assistant coach at Barcelona in 2012, he once coached Messi himself. But when asked about his former student’s visit to Kolkata, the new Mohun Bagan head coach chose to remain tight-lipped.

The long wait is finally coming to an end, as Lionel Messi is set to arrive in Kolkata just after midnight on 11 December. The city is preparing to welcome the World Cup-winning captain with grand celebrations.

On Saturday, the excitement in Kolkata will reach its peak as the Youth Bharati Stadium prepares to host one of the biggest football events in the city’s recent history. Amid growing speculation about whether Shah Rukh Khan will share the stage with Messi, the Bollywood icon confirmed the news on Thursday.
On social media, Shah Rukh wrote: “No plans with the Knights this time in Kolkata. The day belongs entirely to Messi. See you on the 13th at Salt Lake Stadium.”

This means fans will witness both Messi and Shah Rukh on the same stage—an early Christmas gift for the people of Bengal. Also expected to attend the event are Sourav Ganguly, Leander Paes, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, along with several other dignitaries.

Messi’s arrival is more than just a football moment—it is an emotion, a celebration deeply intertwined with Kolkata’s culture, passion, and history.

আইএসএল নিয়ে ধোঁয়াশা, আশঙ্কায় বোরহা হেরেরা

It was expected that either the FSDL or some other organization might submit a bid, but that did not happen. As a result, the future of India’s top-division league currently remains in deep uncertainty. Notably, since last Friday, Mohun Bagan Super Giant announced that they would suspend team training indefinitely. Additionally, several other top-division clubs have become largely inactive in forming their squads, causing widespread concern.

Amid this, Spanish star Borja Herrera has publicly expressed his concern on social media. Sharing several photos of himself playing in the FC Goa jersey, he wrote, “In the absence of the ISL (it seems the situation is getting worse every day), we are still enjoying the Champions League even after defeats.” His comments have drawn significant attention from fans.

Recently, FC Goa played the second leg of the ACL 2 against Al Nassr, where they faced a heavy defeat against João Félix’s side. Despite limited resources, their fighting spirit caught the attention of football enthusiasts. Maintaining continuity in international tournaments, the team also aims to target the Super Cup victory under the guidance of Manolo Márquez.

গভীর অন্ধকারে ISL, সোশ্যাল মিডিয়ায় ‘বিস্ফোরক’ লাল-হলুদ সৌভিক!

According to an earlier announcement, the deadline for bid submission was set for November 5. However, following requests from multiple organizations, the federation’s tender committee extended the deadline to November 7. Many had hoped that FSDA or another organization might submit a bid, but with no activity on Friday either, widespread concern emerged. Consequently, there is now significant uncertainty about whether the Indian Super League will take place this year.

In this situation, one of the country’s strongest football clubs, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, has decided to suspend team training indefinitely. Meanwhile, East Bengal’s president Debashish Dutta and secretary Srijanjoy Basu expressed their frustration over the ISL. The pressing question now is: will the ISL happen, and if so, when? Experts believe that if no organization takes responsibility by the end of November, it will be nearly impossible to start the league before late January or February. The federation’s next decision will determine the fate of India’s biggest football league.

In the midst of this issue, East Bengal player and Bengali footballer Souvik Chakraborty shared his views on social media. He wrote: “The failure of the ISL bid is not just a business failure. For me, it reflects the deep-rooted problems in Indian football administration. This is not just about a league. When the top tier of Indian football is uncertain, it impacts everyone—from grassroots children to the national level. Behind every club and match are players, coaches, support staff, countless fans, and those who work quietly off the field to keep the game alive. Their dedicated efforts deserve clear direction, accountability, and faith in the system that asks them to give their all.

What we need now is transparency, planning, and unity. Every participant, from players and professionals to fans and those working inside and outside the field, deserves a framework that values their love for the game and helps move football forward. I truly hope this issue is resolved as soon as possible—not just for the top level, but for the future of Indian football. For the love of Indian football.”

আইএসএলের অনিশ্চয়তার মধ্যে অনির্দিষ্টকালের জন্য ‘বনধ’ বাগানের অনুশীলন

𝗡𝗘𝗪 : Mohun Bagan suspends senior team’s operation indefinitely after AIFF fails to get any bidder for ISL tender @SayanMukherjee4 pic.twitter.com/p1OL6IYZYp

— Mohun Bagan Hub (@MohunBaganHub) November 7, 2025

According to the club’s management, training has been put on hold until there is clarity regarding the league’s future. The club has informed its players that no preparatory activities will begin under the current circumstances. Although the players are currently on leave, the uncertainty has caused concern among fans.

The federation’s tender committee had initially set November 5 as the deadline for bid submission. After several requests from organizations, it was extended to November 7. While there was hope that FSDL or another organization might submit a bid at the last moment, no interest was shown by Friday.

Sources revealed that FSDL had sent nearly 200 questions to the federation before submitting a bid. However, due to disagreements over financial obligations and relegation procedures, no final resolution was reached. In particular, the annual payment condition of ₹37.5 crore and the mandatory “championship and relegation” clause created complications between the two parties.

Fans have grown increasingly concerned about Mohun Bagan’s decision. Although the players are on leave, the suspension of training has heightened anxiety among the green-and-maroon supporters. Some players, including Jamie MacLaren and Jason Cummings, have gone on personal trips.

The uncertainty surrounding the ISL and Mohun Bagan’s suspension of training has cast a shadow over Indian football fans. Football enthusiasts are now waiting for clarity from the federation and hope for a definitive decision on the league’s future.

হকি স্টেডিয়াম পরিদর্শনে এসে কলকাতা লিগ নিয়ে ‘বিরাট’ সুখবর দিলেন ক্রীড়ামন্ত্রী

Built under the initiative of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the stadium features international-standard synthetic turf. It also includes an Australian-style modern Arden gallery, dedicated warm-up zone, two fully equipped dressing rooms, VIP and VVIP boxes, VIP lounge, umpire and video umpire rooms, and several other modern facilities. Additionally, it houses a doping control and medical room, mixed zone, broadcast and video analysis center, venue operations center, and press corner. The stadium was constructed at a cost of around ₹20,000 crore, making it one of the most advanced sports arenas in the state.

After touring the stadium, Aroop Biswas said, “Under the Chief Minister’s initiative, two hockey grounds have been built in our state — one in Dumurjala and another within the Salt Lake Stadium complex. We also plan to set up a hockey academy in the future. This is one of the best stadiums in the country. I hope that international matches of the Indian team will be held here soon.”

However, the minister did not shy away from speaking about Bengal’s sports-related discrimination. In a pointed remark, he said, “Matches are not allotted to Bengal due to political reasons. But the more Bengal is deprived, the stronger we will rise.”

The Beton Cup is set to begin at this very venue on Saturday. This year, hockey tournaments will not use the East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, or Mohammedan grounds. The minister said, “This year, we are organizing hockey tournaments without using the three major clubs’ grounds. Our discussions are ongoing, and our goal is to bring Calcutta football back to the city’s own fields.”

Aroop Biswas further added, “From the next season, the Calcutta Football League matches will be played in Kolkata grounds itself. The spirit of the game will return from the districts to the heart of the city.”

With the inauguration of this new hockey stadium, a new chapter has been added to West Bengal’s sports landscape. Through the efforts of the Chief Minister and the Sports Department, this stadium not only represents international sporting infrastructure but also stands as a symbol of Bengal’s sporting renaissance.