FIFA Asks AIFF for Answers on Anwar Ali Transfer Delay

by Chandler D'silva November 24, 2025

FIFA has formally reached out to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) asking for an explanation over the long-pending transfer case involving Anwar Ali, who moved from Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) to East Bengal FC. The case has been dragging on for 16 months, and the lack of resolution has raised concern over procedural delays and fairness in Indian club football. 

The dispute stems from a July 2024 contract termination by Anwar Ali of his parent club Delhi FC, followed by his engagement with East Bengal before the transfer was cleared by the AIFF’s Player Status Committee (PSC). In September, the PSC ruled the termination was “without just cause” and ordered Ali banned for four months, while also imposing two transfer-window bans on East Bengal and Delhi FC. 

Mohun Bagan claimed they had been left waiting as the appeal process stalled. In their letter, the club stated:

“The dispute… remains unresolved to date. Despite the passage of more than sixteen months, the matter has not progressed owing to repeated postponements, unilateral adjournments, and significant procedural irregularities. This prolonged delay has effectively denied MBSG timely justice and has caused the Club substantial sporting, financial, and regulatory prejudice.” 

FIFA’s secretariat replied:

“…we can confirm that we will contact your association in due course with regards to the relevant proceedings, as necessary. We thank you for taking note of the above. We remain available for anything further.” 

With FIFA now stepping in, the spotlight is firmly on the AIFF to clarify the reasons for the long delay and set a clear timeline to resolve the case. For Indian football, the outcome may set an important precedent for how player transfers and disputes are managed going forward.

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