Chippa United break silence over FIFA ban amid coach Luc Eymael’s unpaid entitlements

South African side Chippa United FC have finally addressed the controversy surrounding the FIFA-imposed transfer ban, moving to calm concerns after the sanction threatened to disrupt the club’s plans ahead of the next transfer window.

The Betway Premiership outfit confirmed that the issue stems from outstanding payments owed to former head coach Luc Eymael, whose brief spell in charge earlier this season ended without full financial settlement.

The dispute escalated after Eymael reported the club to FIFA for failing to pay his outstanding entitlements following his dismissal.

As a result, FIFA imposed a transfer ban on the Eastern Cape-based club—preventing them from registering new players until the matter is resolved.

The sanction immediately raised concerns over Chippa United’s ability to strengthen their squad in the upcoming transfer window.

In an official statement, Chippa United FC sought to downplay the severity of the situation, describing it as an administrative issue currently being handled amicably.

“The club would like to clarify that this is an ongoing administrative matter, currently being addressed in good spirit between the club and Mr Luc Nico Eymael,” the statement read.

The club also revealed that the outstanding amount is approximately R200,000, and that they have been granted until the next registration window in August to settle the debt.

The August deadline provides Chippa United with a crucial window to resolve the issue before it begins to significantly impact their transfer strategy.

If the amount is paid within the stipulated period, the ban is expected to be lifted without further complications.

Despite the off-field turbulence, the club insists that the situation has not affected football operations.

Management emphasized that the team’s immediate priority is performance, with full focus placed on their remaining five fixtures of the season.

“At present, the club’s full focus remains on the remaining games of the season, with attention directed towards achieving positive results.”

While Chippa United attempt to reassure fans, the situation highlights ongoing financial and administrative challenges that continue to affect clubs across the continent.

For now, the pressure is on the club to resolve the dispute swiftly—before an administrative issue turns into a sporting setback.