Aluko’s absence from the English national team since April 2016 has been marked by her allegations of staff undermining and belittling players. The FA conducted both an internal review and an independent investigation into these accusations, both of which cleared England manager Mark Sampson and his staff of any wrongdoing.
Even after these investigations concluded in March of this year, the FA chose to offer the 30-year-old forward a new £20,000 contract, despite her declaration of unavailability to play under Sampson’s management. An additional £40,000 was provided to Aluko, along with a confidentiality agreement request. The allegations of ‘bullying and harassment,’ as detailed in an eight-page complaint to the Daily Mail, encompassed a span of two years, in which Aluko cited seven specific instances, considering them part of a broader culture of bullying and harassment. This culture, she fears, could potentially extend to current or future England players.
The FA has maintained its stance, stating, ‘The detailed independent investigation report did not uphold any of Eniola Aluko’s complaints and found no wrong-doing on behalf of The FA or others. Notwithstanding the independent investigation’s findings, the FA agreed to a mutual resolution to prevent disruptions to the squad’s tournament preparations. It was not intended to suppress disclosures.’
Eniola Aluko, who was the top scorer in the league during the last season and boasts an impressive 33 goals for England in 102 caps, has brought to light the challenges faced by female footballers, not only on the pitch but also in addressing concerns of mistreatment and harassment within the sport.
