Zim giants banned over failure to pay ex-Jose Mourinho’s assistant
Zimbabwean giants Highlanders have been hit by a FIFA ban over their failure to pay ex-Jose Mourinho’s assistant, Baltemar Brito, his salaries.
Brito and his assistant, Antonio Joao Torres, spent the 2023 season at Highlanders. Their contracts were not renewed as Zambian mentor Kelvin Kaindu assumed the head coach post.
Brito is owed over R 272 000 [US$14 778], while Torres is owed R217 100 [US$11 788] in salaries.
In addition, FIFA said the debts would accrue interest of 5 per cent per year until they settle their arrears.
WHAT FIFA SAID TO HIGHLANDERS FC
FIFA confirmed the ban in a letter from their Disciplinary Committee Head Americo Espallargas.
“We refer to the above-mentioned matter, as well as the decision passed by FIFA in the matter ref. no. FPSD-16612 [the Decision],” reads the letter.
“In this context, it appears that despite the decision. Highlanders FC [the respondent] has not yet complied with its financial obligations towards Baltemar Jose de Oliveira Brito.
“In this regard, we wish to inform the parties that a ban from registering new players internationally has been implemented by FIFA on the respondent.
“The registration ban will remain active until the amount due is paid. And for a maximum duration of up to three entire and consecutive registration periods.
“Lastly, the Zimbabwe Football Association is requested to immediately implement on the respondent a ban from registering new players at national level, if not done yet. We thank you for your kind attention to the above and for your valuable cooperation.’’
Highlanders join Yadah FC, who are also sitting on a FIFA ban from registering players for three transfer windows.
Yadah FC were dragged to FIFA by four Brazilians, Joao Pedro Marques Barcellos, Juan Luciano Faria and Deivid Pereira de Brito. Ngezi Platinum Stars were also banned for failure to settle coach Bongani Mafu’s salaries.
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