Former Guinea national team coach Kaba Diawara has escalated his dispute with the Guinean Football Federation (Feguifoot) by initiating legal proceedings over unpaid salaries.
Diawara, who led the Syli National for over two years, is now seeking intervention from FIFA after failed negotiations with the federation.
A Disputed Departure
Diawara, appointed as Guinea’s head coach in 2021, endured a mixed tenure at the helm. After a challenging start, he guided the national team to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), earning praise from Feguifoot officials.
However, his fortunes changed following Guinea’s disappointing exit at the group stage of the 2024 Olympics, which ultimately led to his dismissal.
What initially seemed like a straightforward managerial change has since developed into a legal battle. Diawara claims that he was dismissed unfairly and that he is owed several months’ salary, in addition to other financial entitlements that remain unsettled.
FIFA Intervention Sought
Efforts to resolve the dispute through direct negotiations proved unsuccessful, prompting Diawara to escalate the matter.
According to journalist David Tchopnn Bangoura, the former Guinea international has formally submitted a complaint to FIFA, alleging contract violations by Feguifoot.
His legal team is pressing for full payment of outstanding wages, as well as compensation for wrongful termination.
Additionally, they are seeking reimbursement for personal expenses, including flight costs for his family, which were reportedly promised but never refunded.
A Broader Issue in Guinean Football
Diawara’s case sheds light on ongoing financial difficulties within Guinea’s football administration. The former coach has previously voiced concerns about delayed payments and unresolved bonus disputes, an issue that has plagued both players and coaching staff in recent years.
While Feguifoot has yet to issue an official response, the legal proceedings could result in a significant financial penalty for the federation if FIFA rules in Diawara’s favor.
The case is expected to draw attention to broader governance issues within the country’s football setup, particularly regarding contractual obligations and financial transparency.
What Lies Ahead
As the legal battle unfolds, Guinea’s football authorities will need to navigate the situation carefully, especially with potential FIFA sanctions looming.
For Diawara, the dispute represents more than just a financial claim—it is also a fight for contractual fairness in a system where such disputes are not uncommon.
With FIFA now involved, a resolution will likely depend on the strength of Diawara’s legal case and Feguifoot’s ability to justify its actions.
The coming months will determine whether the former Syli National coach receives the compensation he demands or if Guinea’s football leadership can successfully defend its position.
🚨FEGUIFOOT : KABA DIAWARA SAISIT LA FIFA POUR SES SALAIRES IMPAYÉS !
L’étau se resserre considérablement au president de la Fédération. C’est une révélation faite par David Tchopnn Bangoura. Kaba a porté plainte contre la Feguifoot pour salaires de plusieurs impayés. ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/OA6Z3DyZJw
— Med Sesay 🇬🇳🇸🇱🇨🇩 (@MedSesayMS) April 2, 2025