FIFA resolves Raphael Ayagwa’s contract tussle with Egyptian club Aswan

By Wale Mustapha

The world football governing body, FIFA has resolved the lingering contract issues between Egyptian club, Aswan FC and Nigerian midfielder, Raphael Ayagwa.

Ayagwa was said to have terminated his contract with Aswan following their relegation to lower division in the 2022/2023 Egyptian Premier League season.

The former Lobi Stars’ schemer rejected the offer to renew his contract which he claimed he was asked to signed under duress.

Ayagwa’s refusal to sign a new contract led to being physically attacked by some officials of Aswan FC resulting in injuries to his chest, arm, and knee. His phone and bags were also confiscated by club officials.

In a statement released by international body of professional footballers, FIFPRO, FIFA’s Dispute Resolution Chamber has ratified that Ayagwa lawfully terminated his contract.

It stated that the player relied on Article 14 of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players to terminate his contract on ‘Just Cause’.

The statement read further that “FIFA DRC ruled Ayagwa should receive unpaid wages and compensation for the early termination of his contract; it imposed a player transfer ban on Aswan SC for two transfer windows.

“Also, considering the injuries and trauma caused to him, the FIFA DRC awarded the player moral damages equivalent to six months of wages.”

Reacting to the ruling, Ayagwa said “I want to thank FIFPRO Africa for their help and professionalism during a very unfortunate and difficult period of my career,” he said.

“I’m glad justice is served and hope that this judgment will serve as a lesson and deterrent to other clubs.”