HIGHLANDERS HIT WITH FIFA TRANSFER BAN OVER UNPAID...

HIGHLANDERS HIT WITH FIFA TRANSFER BAN OVER UNPAID COACHING STAFF SALARIES

Patience Muchmwa

Senior Reporter

In a devastating blow to their rebuilding efforts, Highlanders Football Club has been slapped with a transfer ban by FIFA's Disciplinary Committee. The ban, which took effect on January 29, prohibits the Bulawayo giants from registering new players both internationally and domestically.

The punishment comes after Highlanders failed to pay outstanding salaries to their former coach, Baltemar Brito, and his assistant, Antonio Joao Torres. According to FIFA, Brito is owed US$14,778, plus interest of US$237.71, while Torres is owed US$11,788, plus interest of US$193.74.

The Brazilian coaches took their case to FIFA after exhausting all avenues with Highlanders, who were given a 45-day window to settle the debt but failed to meet the deadline. As a result, FIFA has imposed a ban that will cripple Highlanders' plans to reboot their squad.

The timing couldn't be worse for Highlanders, who have lost key players like Lynoth Chikuhwa, Godfrey Makaruse, Peter Muduhwa, and Marvelous Chigumira. New coach Kelvin Kaindu's plans to rebuild the team have been dealt a significant blow, and the club's chances of competing at the top level have been severely compromised.

FIFA's decision serves as a stark reminder to clubs of the importance of fulfilling their financial obligations to coaching staff and players. The ban will remain in place until Highlanders settle their debt, which will accrue interest of 5% per annum until paid in full.