Anwar Ali given NOC to return to Delhi FC, can East Bengal sign him immediately?

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Indian football defender Anwar Ali has received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and returned to Delhi FC.

Following the termination of his loan deal with Mohun Bagan SG, Ali was close to a permanent move to East Bengal.

The All India Football Federation's (AIFF) Player Status Committee stated, "The player (Anwar Ali) has terminated his contract and has admittedly already returned to Delhi FC, and thereafter signed with Emami East Bengal Football Club."

However, Ali's registration with East Bengal or any other club is still under scrutiny and awaits the final order of the ongoing dispute. The AIFF's Player Status Committee will make a final decision, with the next hearing scheduled for August 22. Any club interested in acquiring Anwar Ali must proceed cautiously, as the case's outcome could have serious repercussions as per FIFA regulations.

Potential Risks for Interested Clubs

If the final ruling goes against Ali or any interested club, there is a risk of a transfer ban and potential monetary fines. The uncertainty surrounding Ali's registration could impact not only his career but also any club looking to secure his services. His loan deal with Mohun Bagan was terminated due to new FIFA regulations that render any loan longer than one year invalid.

Anwar Ali had joined Bagan last season on a four-year loan agreement with Delhi FC. However, he wrote to AIFF's players' registrations department last month expressing his desire to exit the Bagan deal as it was harming his future prospects. With three years still left on his existing loan agreement, Bagan was unwilling to negotiate.

AIFF's Interim Order

The AIFF committee has clarified that Anwar's participation in any competition until the final disposal of the case "shall be at the risk of both the player and his new club."

Meanwhile, Delhi FC and East Bengal have been given additional time until August 20 to file their replies to Bagan's counter-claim. The next PSC hearing is set for August 22. In its interim order last week, the PSC ruled that Anwar's unilateral termination of his four-year loan agreement with Bagan was without just cause.

Can East Bengal sign Anwar Ali?

Anwar has now been allowed to return to Delhi FC, his parent club, before completing a transfer to East Bengal. He admitted to having an agreement with East Bengal already. However, both he and any interested clubs are warned about potential risks pending the final order.

The committee directed that this order be treated as an NOC for purposes of player reintegration and registration on AIFF CRS since Bagan had not issued an NOC despite conceding termination while reserving rights for sanctions and damages.

Anwar Ali's situation remains complex as he navigates through these legal hurdles. It remains uncertain whether he will move quickly enough to join East Bengal in time for their upcoming fixtures.

The Red and Gold Brigade may also be very cautious before signing the Indian defender, as potential repercussions can harm their transfer policy and cause financial penalties. Hence, patience will be key for East Bengal as they look to land the prized defender.

Fans want Anwar at East Bengal

MyKhel had a talk with a few East Bengal supporters and they were eager to have the player at the club.

"Anwar is someone who has his heart set for East Bengal. Anwar decided to leave Mohun Bagan for us and the club must ensure that he gets his wish. He will be a big signing for us, especially as he will play under Carles Cuadrat along with players like Hijazi (Hijazi Maher)," said Rita Dafadar, a school teacher and an ardent East Bengal supporter.