A major transfer dispute has seen world football governing body FIFA take firm action against Étoile Sportive du Sahel after the club failed to settle a transfer fee owed to Gor Mahia FC.
The issue revolves around Kenyan defender Alphonce Omija, who completed a move to the Tunisian side in 2025. As part of the agreement, Étoile Sportive du Sahel was required to pay a transfer fee reportedly valued at around $50,000. However, the payment was not made within the agreed timeline, prompting Gor Mahia to escalate the matter to FIFA.
After reviewing the case, FIFA ruled in favor of the Kenyan champions and ordered the Tunisian club to settle the outstanding amount, including any applicable interest. When Étoile failed to comply with the directive, FIFA imposed a strict punishment—banning the club from registering new players both locally and internationally.
The sanction will remain in effect until the debt is cleared, though it could extend to cover up to three consecutive transfer windows if the issue persists. This ruling delivers a significant boost to Gor Mahia, reinforcing their position and highlighting the importance of honoring contractual obligations in international transfers.
The decision also serves as a warning to clubs across the football world that failure to meet financial commitments can result in serious sporting consequences.
