The focus will not be just on Kolkata clubs in the ISL, claims IM Vijayan

While Mohun Bagan have already been confirmed as an Indian Super League club by the virtue of a merger with former club ATK, arch-rivals East Bengal were desperately looking for financial backing. Finally, after support from FSDL and the Chief Minister of West Bengal, the century-old club named Shree Cements as their investors and re-kindled their hopes of playing in the ISL in the upcoming season. 

While there has been no official announcement regarding the same, we are expecting East Bengal to make their debut, thus paving the way for the first Kolkata Derby in the ISL. Former footballer IM Vijayan feels that the Kolkata Derby in the ISL will be no different, as all teams are equally good and the focus will not just be on the Kolkata clubs.

"Mohun Bagan have already entered into the ISL. East Bengal coming into the ISL would be fantastic. It's great for the federation that two of the top clubs in India are playing together in the ISL," said IM Vijayan, to Goal.com.

“I don't think it (Kolkata derby in ISL) will be different. All teams in ISL are very good. Bengaluru, Chennaiyin, Mumbai City, Kerala Blasters are all very good teams. The focus will not be just on Kolkata clubs. Indian players will get more chances so that's a good thing," said IM Vijayan,” added the ex-footballer.