Chippa United handed FIFA transfer ban over unpaid Roland Sanou claim

Chippa United have been handed another FIFA transfer ban after failing to settle outstanding financial obligations owed to former midfielder Roland Sanou.

The Betway Premiership club have been barred from registering new players both internationally and within South Africa, according to a FIFA communication seen by iDiski Times. The sanction will remain in place until the amount owed to Sanou has been paid, although it can last for a maximum of three complete and consecutive registration periods.

FIFA has also instructed the South African Football Association (SAFA) to enforce the national registration ban immediately, if that has not already been done.

The decision follows a complaint lodged by Sanou, who took the matter to FIFA after his time with the Gqeberha-based club. FIFA subsequently ruled in favour of the 24-year-old midfielder.

Sanou joined Chippa United on a free transfer from Moroka Swallows during the 2024-25 season. Despite being registered with the Chilli Boys, he did not make an official appearance for the club.

His move to Chippa United came after a spell with Moroka Swallows, where he made 12 appearances following his arrival from Royal FC Bobo in Burkina Faso, his home country.

After leaving Chippa United, Sanou returned to Burkina Faso. He now plays for Vitesse FC.

The ban means Chippa United cannot add new players to their squad at either international or national level while the debt remains unpaid. The restriction covers the club’s ability to register incoming players rather than preventing existing squad members from playing.

FIFA’s ruling creates another administrative difficulty for Chippa United, who have previously faced disciplinary action connected to transfer-related financial obligations. The latest sanction specifically concerns the amount due to Sanou and will not be lifted until the outstanding payment has been made.

The club is based in Gqeberha and competes in the Betway Premiership. As stipulated by FIFA, the restriction can be removed once the financial obligation is settled, but if it remains unresolved it can continue through as many as three consecutive registration windows.