Bosso hit with FIFA transfer ban

Bulawayo giants Highlanders Football Club have become the latest Premier Soccer League side to face FIFA sanctions, as the club has been slapped with a transfer ban for failing to settle outstanding salaries owed to their former coach, Baltemar Brito, and his assistant, Antonio Joao Torres.

The ban, which affects both international and domestic player registrations, comes as a major blow to Highlanders, who are looking to rebuild their squad following the departure of key players like Lynoth Chikuhwa, Godfrey Makaruse, Peter Muduhwa, and Marvelous Chigumira.

According to FIFA's Disciplinary Committee, Brito is owed US$14,778, with an additional US$237.71 in interest accrued by October 17, 2024. Torres is owed US$11,788, plus US$193.74 in interest. The debt will continue to accrue interest at a rate of 5% per annum until it is fully settled.

Highlanders were given a 45-day window to clear the debt but failed to meet the deadline, prompting FIFA to implement the transfer ban. This mirrors a similar situation involving Yadah Stars last year, who are also under a FIFA ban for failing to pay debts owed to Brazilian nationals.

FIFA's head of disciplinary, Americo Espallargas, confirmed the sanctions in a letter addressed to Highlanders, which was also copied to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), and the coaches' representatives.

"In this regard, we wish to inform the parties that a ban from registering new players internationally has been implemented by FIFA on the Respondent," the letter stated. "The registration ban will remain active until the amount due is paid and for a maximum duration of up to three entire and consecutive registration periods."

ZIFA has also been instructed to enforce the ban at the national level.

The timing of the ban is particularly concerning for Highlanders, as they prepare for the 2025 Castle Lager Premiership season. The club recently welcomed back Zambian coach Kelvin Kaindu, who was expected to spearhead a squad overhaul.

However, the ban could derail those plans unless the club can resolve the financial issue before the close of the domestic transfer window.

Highlanders' Chief Executive Officer, Brian Moyo, acknowledged the ban and expressed optimism about resolving the issue.

"Yes, it is true, the club owes the foreign coaches," Moyo said. "Efforts are underway to remedy the situation as soon as possible to avoid missing out on the transfer window. We are working round the clock with our partners and in full consultation with the Reserve Bank to ensure compliance with funds transfer regulations."

Moyo emphasized that the club is committed to clearing the debt and providing Kaindu with the resources to strengthen the squad.

Highlanders have not won the league championship since 2006, under the leadership of Methembe Ndlovu. With the club's faithful hoping for a resurgence in 2025, resolving the FIFA dispute is critical to their ambitions of ending the 19-year drought.

The ban underscores the financial challenges faced by local clubs, as well as the importance of fulfilling contractual obligations to avoid costly penalties. Highlanders now face a race against time to lift the sanction and refocus on their domestic campaign.