LATEST: Accra Hearts of Oak Hit with FIFA Transfer Ban Over Rene Hiddink Debt

Ghanaian giants Accra Hearts of Oak have been handed a transfer ban by the world football governing body, FIFA, after failing to settle an outstanding debt owed to their former Technical Director, Rene Hiddink.

The debt, amounting to $146,400, stems from unpaid contractual obligations during Hiddink’s tenure with the Phobians. FIFA’s decision means that Hearts of Oak will be barred from registering new players until the debt is fully cleared.

This development comes at a crucial time for the Accra-based side, who were hoping to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming Ghana Premier League season. The ban could significantly hamper their preparations and competitiveness in both domestic and continental competitions.

Sources close to the club indicate that management is in talks to resolve the matter as quickly as possible, with hopes of appealing or reaching a payment plan to lift the sanction.

Rene Hiddink, a Dutch coach and the younger brother of renowned tactician Guus Hiddink, previously served as Technical Director of the club, overseeing developmental and structural reforms. However, his departure left unresolved financial issues which have now culminated in FIFA’s ruling.

Unless the debt is paid in full, Hearts of Oak risk extending the ban into future transfer windows, a situation that could destabilize the club’s rebuilding project and further frustrate their supporters.