Relegated Aizawl FC to be back in I league

by Chittu Shetty September 26, 2016

Both fans and the players of the formerly relegated club will be overjoyed with the news

The Northeastern Club, who got relegated last season, will once again be part of country’s top league for 2016-17 season

AIFF President Mr. Praful Patel Chaired AIFF’s Executive Committee Meeting in Goa on Monday, September 26, where important decision regarding next season of I league were taken.

It was decided to reinstate the northeastern club back in the top division i.e. Aizawl FC will once again be one of the nine contestants in the I-League 2016-17 seasons

Aizawl in the last season got relegated after finishing eight just above relegation free DSK Shivajians. Impressed by the young team’s performances and the crowd support generated in its very first year, there were much furor among the fans and many football pundits about the team getting another shot in the top league. And with teams backing out in the top division, the choices seemed reduced for the governing body.

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Sunando Dhar said,” Keeping in mind the heartwarming performance of Aizawl FC in the last edition, the Committee unanimously decided to give them a ticket to play in the 2016-17 edition.” He also stated the starting date of the 2016-17 season as 7 January 2017.

“Aizawl will be a part of the I-League. We are looking to promote teams from different regions in the I-League and that policy will always be maintained by the AIFF,” said Praful Patel, the AIFF president.

However, Patel confirmed that Aizawl FC isn’t a replacement for Salgaocar FC, who opted out of the competition and that Dempo SC and Sporting Club de Goa are part of the next year’s I-League. Patel also said that AIFF will be inviting teams and will be soon advertising about it.

“Aizawl FC is not replacement for Salgaocar FC. I have been contacted by many parties to set-up teams in the I-League and we will also begin advertising to let people know that we are welcoming teams to the I-League,” said Patel.