PANAJI
Mumbai City FC, the defending champions of the Indian Super League (ISL), has been handed a national transfer ban by FIFA. This means the team cannot register any new players until the ban is lifted.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) issued a circular stating that the ban on Mumbai City FC (FIFA ID-142UH1C) is effective immediately. This decision comes as part of communication received from FIFA's Head of Disciplinary.
The team has faced challenges in the past. Last season, the AIFF suspended two foreign players, Rostyn Griffiths and Jorge Pereyra Diaz, for five and four matches respectively due to disputes during a semifinal match against Odisha FC. Following this, Mumbai City FC and Griffiths mutually parted ways on January 31, 2024. Meanwhile, Pereyra signed a contract with Bengaluru FC in July.
In 2019, the under-18 team of Mumbai City FC was also suspended for a year by the MDFA after a physical altercation with an assistant match referee during a game against Karnatak Sporting Association. The current transfer ban adds to the club's ongoing difficulties as they navigate the 2024-25 season.
