Football governance in developing nations is increasingly scrutinized due to the sport's global commercial value and its cultural and political influence. This article critically examines the administrative and legal frameworks governing football in two emerging football nations namely India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Drawing from international governance standards, domestic statutes, and recent judicial interventions, this analysis explores the power dynamics, institutional fragmentation, and legal shortcomings that characterize football administration in these jurisdictions. Through a comparative critique of governance models, the article evaluates how legal structures reinforce or undermine transparency, accountability, and institutional independence mainly focusing on the Governance in Indian Football. It concludes with policy-oriented legal reform proposals aimed at harmonizing national practices with FIFA's governance mandates and promoting sustainable football development inIndia.