ISL: Odisha FC quashes social media claims of club moving out of the state

Indian Super League (ISL) club Odisha FC has released a statement issuing clarification over the recent local media and social media speculation about the club's move away from the state after losing local sponsorships. 

Calling the reports as 'completely untrue and misleading,' the statement went on to affirm the club's commitment towards developing football in the state, saying "Odisha FC remains deeply committed to its roots in Odisha and enjoys a strong and fruitful partnership with the Government of Odisha."

"We are proud to represent the people of Odisha on the national and international football stage," the statement added, before going on to list the various initiatives undertaken by the football club in the state. 

Social media posts taken out of context

The rumors began after club owner Rohan Sharma took to social media to voice his frustration with local sponsors of the club opting to pull out of their deals owing to a change in government in the state. 

In a series of tweets, Rohan spoke about how despite setbacks, he and the club are dedicated to working towards resolving these issues and giving the fans of the club what they want. 

Local media outlet Sambad Odisha took a spin on the story, indicating this incident as a possible sign of a move away from the state for the club. 

Rohan once again took to social media firmly refusing the allegations, calling it "smear tactics." 

Following this, the club also issued a statement denying all such allegations. 

"We shall continue to strive for success both on and off the field, bringing pride and delight to the Odisha people," the statement concluded. 

Odisha FC's men's team currently sits in seventh place in the ongoing ISL season, and their women's team, the defending champions of the Indian Women's League (IWL), will soon be in action on January 10 in the new season of IWL.