India international Anwar Ali is now officially cleared to play for East Bengal FC after receiving a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Player Status Committee (PSC).
Anwar Ali’s Clearance and Potential Debut
In a significant development for Indian football, star defender Anwar Ali received interim relief from the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) Player Status Committee (PSC) on Thursday. This ruling grants him the green light to play for East Bengal FC, just in time for their upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) clash against Kerala Blasters on September 22. Ali’s lawyer, Sarim Naved, confirmed the issuance of the NOC, marking the end of a complex dispute that had delayed the player’s debut for his new club.
With this NOC in hand, Anwar Ali, a pivotal figure in India’s defense, is now available for East Bengal after missing the club’s ISL opener against Bengaluru FC, which ended in a 1-0 defeat for the Kolkata-based team.
The Transfer Controversy and PSC’s Initial Ruling
The 24-year-old defender’s move to East Bengal has been surrounded by controversy since July. After terminating his four-year loan contract with Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Anwar signed a five-year permanent deal with East Bengal FC, arriving from Delhi FC. However, Mohun Bagan contested the transfer, alleging that Anwar’s departure from the club was without sufficient cause.
The PSC initially sided with Mohun Bagan, imposing a hefty Rs.12.90 crore fine on Anwar Ali and slapping transfer bans on both East Bengal and Delhi FC for two windows. This decision was met with resistance from all parties involved and was soon challenged in court.
Court Intervention and Reopening of Proceedings
In a critical legal twist, the Delhi High Court stepped in on September 13, quashing the PSC’s initial ruling. The court determined that the PSC had failed to provide a detailed reasoning to the aggrieved parties, mandating a review of the case. This ruling prompted the PSC to revisit the proceedings, which commenced earlier this week.
After two days of deliberations, the PSC reversed its stance, granting Anwar Ali the much-needed NOC. The final decision regarding the fines and transfer bans is expected by the end of September, but for now, Anwar Ali is free to compete for East Bengal FC, allowing the club to bolster their defense.
Anwar Ali’s Potential Impact for East Bengal
Anwar Ali’s inclusion in East Bengal’s matchday squad couldn’t come at a better time. With his wealth of experience, including 23 appearances for the Indian national team and successful stints at FC Goa and Mohun Bagan, Ali is expected to be a key defensive asset for East Bengal. His familiarity with the ISL, where he played a vital role in Mohun Bagan’s Durand Cup and ISL Shield victories last season, could significantly enhance East Bengal’s backline as they seek their first win of the season.
Although Anwar hasn’t played a domestic game this season due to the legal dispute, he has remained active with the national team, with his most recent appearance being in the Intercontinental Cup against Syria on September 9, 2024. His return to club football is eagerly awaited, especially with the challenging fixture against Kerala Blasters just days away.
East Bengal’s Challenges Ahead
East Bengal FC is in dire need of a turnaround after losing their opening match against Bengaluru FC. The Kolkata giants will be banking on Anwar Ali to fortify their defense and improve their performance in the upcoming ISL matches. With Kerala Blasters standing in their way, East Bengal hopes that Anwar’s presence will bring the stability and leadership required at the back.
The prospect of Ali making his debut for the club adds an extra layer of excitement to the contest, as fans will be keen to see how the defender fits into the team’s tactical setup.
Anwar Ali’s Journey to the Pitch
Anwar Ali’s journey to don the East Bengal FC jersey has been filled with challenges, legal battles, and uncertainties. However, with the PSC granting him the NOC, the defender is now free to focus solely on football. The upcoming match against Kerala Blasters on September 22 could mark his long-awaited debut for East Bengal FC, a moment both the player and the club have been anticipating for months.
As the legal dust settles, Anwar Ali will aim to leave his mark on East Bengal’s ISL campaign and help the club achieve the success its fans crave. All eyes will be on him this Sunday as he prepares to take the field in the red and gold jersey, fully focused on making a difference for his new club.
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When is East Bengal’s next match?
East Bengal play Kerala Blasters away from home on Sunday, 22 September from 7:30 pm onwards.
