Indian football is going through one of its toughest times, and things just got worse. Chennaiyin FC, one of the country’s most well-known clubs, has decided to temporarily suspend all football operations. The club has reportedly informed its players and staff, leaving their future hanging in uncertainty.
This shocking move comes in the middle of rising instability in Indian football, especially after the suspension of the 2025–26 Indian Super League (ISL) season. Ongoing disputes between the league organizers and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) have only made things worse. Several other ISL clubs have also taken similar drastic steps recently.
Chennaiyin FC, a two-time ISL champion, had already released several youth players and staff members just a few days ago. The club’s struggles began after a disappointing 2024–25 season, which ended with the departure of head coach Owen Coyle—further deepening the crisis.
With the future of the league still unclear and financial challenges piling up, Chennaiyin FC’s decision has left fans heartbroken and raised serious concerns about the state of Indian football.