Kerala Blasters Ownership Change and Wage Dispute Highlight Financial Struggles in ISL

Two early issues in the 2026-27 Indian Super League (ISL) season have shown how tough it is financially for clubs under the new structure. Kerala Blasters is changing hands, while Inter Kashi is dealing with unpaid wages.

On September 29, Kerala Blasters announced that their owner, Magnum Sports, has agreed to sell the club to Al Fursan, a UAE-based sports group led by Sheikh Ahmad bin Faisal Al Qasimi. The sale will happen in stages over eight months and still needs regulatory approvals. Ofioh Sporty, a local sports company, will manage day-to-day operations.

The new owners plan to focus on commercial growth, sports tech, infrastructure, and fan engagement through their “Project Blasters.” Head coach Ashley Westwood will stay, and the team will remain in Kochi.

Meanwhile, Inter Kashi is facing problems with unpaid wages. East Bengal’s coach, Antonio Lopez Habas, who previously coached Inter Kashi, said players and staff from last season haven’t been paid. He also questioned how Inter Kashi could register 22 new signings without settling previous debts.

Inter Kashi hasn’t responded publicly, and no official ruling has been made on the issue. The situation was described as “very complicated” by Habas earlier this year.

The ISL is now under a new system where clubs own the commercial rights, including broadcasting and sponsorship. Each club pays an administrative fee to AIFF ( ₹1.1 crore in the first year). Clubs share league profits, with AIFF taking 10% and clubs getting 90%. This means clubs are more financially responsible for their operations.

Kerala Blasters is still discussing stadium terms as they prepare for the new season. These developments show how challenging it is for clubs to manage under the new financial model.