FIFA has handed Chippa United a 45-day deadline to settle outstanding payments owed to former head coach Luc Eymael, failing which the club will face an immediate transfer ban.
The letter, dated 20 February, formally notifies the Eastern Cape outfit of the ruling. With several days already elapsed, the Chilli Boys now have approximately 42 days remaining to comply with the directive or risk being barred from registering new players.
According to the ruling, the club has been ordered to pay R250,000 plus 5% interest to Eymael. While the amount may appear modest compared to other financial figures circulating around the club, the consequences of non-compliance could prove far more damaging, particularly with squad planning and recruitment at stake.
Beyond the FIFA sanction, Chippa United are also understood to be facing significant financial pressures on multiple fronts. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is reportedly owed R35 million, placing further strain on the club’s financial stability.
In addition, there are outstanding matters involving former coach Morgan Mammila and veteran midfielder Kurt Lentjies, with the amounts owed in those cases yet to be publicly disclosed.
The accumulation of financial disputes paints a concerning picture for the Gqeberha-based side, who must now act swiftly to avoid further sanctions. A transfer ban would severely limit their ability to strengthen the squad and could impact their competitiveness in domestic competitions.
With the countdown officially underway, all eyes will be on Chippa United’s leadership to see whether the matter is resolved within the stipulated timeframe or if FIFA’s disciplinary measures will take immediate effect.