Espérance Sportive de Tunis are once again free to participate in the transfer market after successfully overturning a recruitment ban imposed by FIFA.
The restriction, which stemmed from a contractual dispute involving former player Hamdou El Houni, had prevented the Tunisian club from signing new players.
The issue was related to delays in settling financial penalties owed to the Libyan international following the termination of his contract.
Club officials have now resolved the matter, allowing the ban to be lifted and clearing the way for Espérance to reinforce their squad ahead of the new season.
The ban, which had cast uncertainty over the club’s transfer plans, had sparked concern among supporters and raised questions about the club’s financial management.
However, with the matter now settled, Espérance can shift focus back to footballing objectives.
The club’s management confirmed the development in a brief statement, expressing relief and reaffirming their commitment to upholding future financial obligations in line with FIFA regulations.
The decision will come as a welcome boost for the Tunisian giants, who are looking to rebuild after falling short of continental success in recent seasons.
Hamdou El Houni, who played a pivotal role during his time with Espérance, was at the centre of the long-standing dispute after the club failed to meet payment deadlines related to contractual terms and late penalties.
The case had been under FIFA’s scrutiny, and the governing body acted by issuing a transfer ban until the obligations were fulfilled.
Now that the sanction has been lifted, Espérance can proceed with planned signings as they look to strengthen their squad across key positions.
With domestic rivals and continental challengers already active in the market, regaining the ability to recruit players will be crucial for the club’s ambitions moving forward.
The resolution also closes a turbulent chapter in Espérance’s recent administrative affairs.
It highlights the increasing importance of financial discipline among African clubs operating under global football’s regulatory framework.
Espérance are expected to announce new acquisitions in the coming weeks, as the club aims to restore its dominance both in the Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1 and in CAF competitions.
