The Indian Super League is set to slash the number of foreign players in squads from eight to seven, starting next season, according to a report. Although the number of foreign players allowed in the starting XI will still be five, franchises will be able to sign on only seven, reported the Times of India.
When the ISL started in 2014, season one’s rules stated that upto 11 foreigners could be registered in squads, and up to six foreigners could take the pitch at a time. Six was reduced to five this season, keeping in mind the restrictions for Asian Football Confederation (AFC) competitions. ISL clubs are eligible to participate in the AFC Cup starting this season.
“Reduction of foreign players will not harm anyone,” an ISL official was quoted as saying in the report. “The foreign players on the field will continue to remain the same but many feel it’s pointless to have additional foreign players on the bench.”
Clubs have also been asked to go easy on the signings in an unofficial communication from the organisers. Many foreigners such as Northeast United’s Maic Sema or Bengaluru’s Daniel Segovia were under-used this season, and their appearances were mainly restricted to the bench.
Elsewhere, there have been foreign-player swaps between the clubs as well. Mark Sifneos moved from Kerala Blasters to FC Goa, while the Gaurs let Manuel Arana join Delhi Dynamos on loan. 13-goal striker Kalu Uche joined two-time champions ATK.