After the transfer dispute with Olimpija Ljubljana and the severe punishment by FIFA, 1. FC Köln are fighting against the verdict. In the worst case, the one-year transfer ban can hit the club hard in its struggle for existence.
What started the argument?
For more than a year, the dispute has been smoldering over the free transfer of the now 17-year-old striker Jaka Cuber Potocnik from Olimpija Ljubljana to 1. FC Köln. According to Cologne, the young footballer canceled his contract with the Slovenians, which ran until 2024, “due to numerous breaches of contract on the part of the club”. “The player signed a contract in June 2021 with various promises, including being allowed to train with the first men’s team. This was demonstrably not complied with. Accordingly, the player unilaterally terminated his contract on January 30, 2022 due to contractual promises not being kept and on January 31 . Signed for 1. FC Köln on January 1st,” explained FC Managing Director Christian Keller.
Why did the case come to FIFA?
Olimpija accused Potocnik of a more unlawful breach of his employment contract. The FC was accused of inciting the player to breach the contract. On the other hand, one has defended oneself in a comprehensive statement of defense, said the people of Cologne.
What penalties has FIFA imposed?
1. FC Köln will not be allowed to register any new players in the next two transfer periods and has also been ordered to pay the Slovenian club €51,750. In addition, Potocnik has been banned for four months with immediate effect.
What does the penalty mean for 1. FC Köln?
The transfer ban would have catastrophic consequences for the club. The personnel situation could hardly be corrected. Up to seven license player contracts are expiring, the future of midfielder Ellyes Skhiri and captain Jonas Hector at 1. FC Köln is uncertain. In Leart Paqarada (FC St. Pauli), a player has already been signed for the coming season. “He has signed an employment contract from July 1st. If the verdict stays the same, he would not get the right to play for FC,” said Keller.
In addition, it has not yet been clarified what this means in relation to loaned and loaned players. “If the FIFA verdict stands, we need a plan B,” said the FC managing director. “It will certainly be difficult for a player to sign a contract here. I wouldn’t do that as a player either,” said Keller.
How does 1. FC Cologne defend itself?
With the passage before the international sports tribunal Cas in Lausanne. “We will now appeal as soon as possible and try to ensure that the sentence is suspended for the time being. We have until April 20 to do this,” said Keller. The club hopes the sanctions, which apply immediately, will be temporarily lifted pending a verdict.
How big are the Bundesliga club’s chances of further legal action?
The people of Cologne see themselves in the right, have witnesses and written evidence, including a written opt-out clause from the player. FIFA justifies its judgment with the fact that 1. FC Köln cannot prove that they did not incite the player. At least a reduction in penalties is possible.
Are there comparable cases?
Internationally, FIFA has repeatedly imposed transfer bans on clubs in recent years. Chelsea have been banned for two transfer periods for violating rules on the transfer of underage players. Manchester City have been fined around €370,000 for similar breaches. FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have also been penalized, but in almost all cases the clubs have achieved a reduction. Olympique Marseille are also currently trying to appeal against a ban because of the modalities of signing the player Pape Gueye.
What role does Potocnik play at 1. FC Köln?
The 17-year-old has been with the Rhinelanders for 14 months and has only been used at junior level. The Slovenian junior international caused a sensation in the A-Junior Bundesliga. The centre-forward has scored 13 goals in 15 games and is considered a great hope for youngsters. The U19 juniors would miss Potocnik in the end of the season in the championship and in the cup. “We spoke to him. Of course he’s very sad, but he’s a stable player. We told him not to worry, we’ll take care of it,” said Keller.
