Former Franco-Malian star Lassana Diarra seeks €65 million from FIFA in legal battle

Former France international of Malian descent Lassana Diarra is currently seeking a €65 million in compensation from the world football governing body (FIFA) and Belgian federation in a legal battle.

The former Real Madrid and Paris Saint Germain star won a significant legal battle against FIFA and the Belgian Federation at the Court of the European Union back in October 2024, which ruled that the existing transfer regulations violate European Union law in certain aspects.

However, the retired Franco-Malian midfielder has taken a bold step against both organizations in a Belgian court, demanding a whopping amount of €65 million.

Background:

In 2014, Diarra unilaterally terminated his contract with Lokomotiv Moscow, but FIFA ruled that he had no valid reason for doing so and fined the Frenchman €10.5 million.

Afterwards, he received an offer from Belgian side Charleroi, but was unable to obtain a transfer certificate from his previous club. Ultimately, Diarra took FIFA to the European Union Court, which determined that the transfer regulations did not comply with Union law and needed to be changed.

The 40-year-old retired from professional football back in 2019, bringing an end to his illustrious career, where he featured for a hosts of top clubs, including Real Madrid, Chelsea, Arsenal, Marseille and Paris Saint Germain.

He made 34 appearances for the France national team without scoring a goal after marking his debut in 2007.