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Debabrata Sarkar has insisted that Indian Super League doesn't matter and clubs in I-League play better football than ISL. The executive member also stated EB wants a single league where all clubs can participate and stated that if ISL reopens bidding then the club would definitely place its bid.

East Bengal is in advance talks with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and their commercial partners IMG-Reliance to seek entry into the ISL. It is believed EB have bagged a sponsor and after successful completion of the financial criteria, may enter ISL either this year or the season after.

Just days after winning the I-League, Aizawl FC's future in top-flight Indian football is in grave doubt following the possible merger of I-League with the cash-rich ISL that could see the Mizoram club being demoted on account of lack of budget even as they compete in the prestigious AFC Cup.

Bengaluru FC will begin their I-league title defence by playing against Shillong Lajong at their home fort - the Sree Kanteerava Stadium - in the inaugural game of the new season on 7th January. East Bengal will lock horns with Aizawl FC at the Barasat Stadium in the other match of the opening day.