Royal AM Awaits CAS Ruling On FIFA Transfer Ban
Royal AM is eagerly awaiting the outcome of its appeal against a FIFA-imposed transfer ban. The club will learn its fate on 13 September at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The ban, which prevents Royal AM from signing new players both domestically and internationally, was imposed at the beginning last season after the club was found guilty of releasing Serbian striker Samir Nurkovic without settling his dues.
Before the start of last season, Royal AM owner Shauwn Mkhize, during the Msunduzi Municipality sponsorship announcement, claimed that Nurkovic was seeking a retirement package due to an injury sustained upon joining the club. However, internal sources within Royal AM revealed that the club failed to conduct a proper medical examination on Nurkovic, leading to accusations against former CEO Sinky Mnisi.
Despite providing medical reports indicating Nurkovic’s dishonesty, Royal AM was unable to convince FIFA to overturn the ban. The club is now seeking justice at CAS and believes the ban will be lifted.
Coach John Maduka, who is leading Royal AM yet again this season, expressed optimism about a favorable outcome in the appeal.
“We always hope for the better, that things will go according to our way and that is the only way we can hope,” said Maduka during the Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup draw on Tuesday.
However, the looming transfer deadline on 20 September poses significant challenges for the club, which has already lost key players like Menzi Masuku and Ruzaigh Gamildien to Golden Arrows and Durvan City respectively.
Maduka acknowledged the difficulties in finding new players within such a short timeframe and expressed concerns about the club’s ability to strengthen its squad before the season starts. “It is very challenging because where are you going to find the players by then,” said Maduka.
“It’s very difficult because the time doesn’t allow us to go and look for players, it’s very difficult. I don’t think we can make it. I think what we must focus on now is what we have for the start of the season and hope things will go our way.”
In addition to the Nurkovic case, Royal AM is also involved in a dispute with former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Ricardo Nascimento who too took the matter to FIFA and came back in his favour. However, the club claims to have settled with Nascimento before the end of the 2022/23 season, while Nascimento contends that his contract had another year to run.
