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Igor Stimac, the head coach of the Indian men's football team, has appealed to Indian Super League (ISL) clubs via social media to allow their players to participate in the upcoming Asian Games and the U23 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.
"A sincere request to all ISL Clubs. Indian Football is at a pivotal moment currently. Over the last few years, we've laboured diligently to nurture a culture and sustain momentum towards achieving our overarching objectives. It's essential that we maintain this unity and progression," read Stimac's message.
He urged the clubs to extend their support to national teams, especially in the imminent period filled with significant tournaments like the AFC U23 qualifiers, Asian Games, World Cup Qualifiers, and AFC Asian Cup. "As a country, we aspire to field our best players against Asia and the World's football powerhouses, demonstrating that we are a force to be reckoned with," he added.
Previously, Sportstar reported that several Indian Super League clubs communicated their reluctance to the All Indian Football Federation (AIFF) about releasing players for the U-23 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, citing the clash with the domestic season and the matches falling outside of the FIFA international window.
Players from ISL clubs comprise the entire Asian Games squad and a majority of the probables for the U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers. This list includes national team captain Sunil Chhetri of Bengaluru FC, who is likely to lead India in the Hangzhou 2022 event.
Stimac commended the efforts of the clubs in fostering and developing players over the past few years, acknowledging the positive impact on the National Team's recent performances. He further requested the clubs to release players for an extended national camp preceding the AFC Asian Cup and FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
Concluding his message, Stimac assured, "Our national teams will endeavour to affirm your support with our performances. Let's steer our nation to the apex of football."
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