According to reports, Pitso Mosimane's new side Esteghlal FC are at serious risk of a transfer ban from FIFA.
Mosimane took charge of his first game as Esteghlal manager on Saturday, 26 October, with his side succumbing to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Kheybar Khorramabad.
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With his debut in charge of the side having ended in disappointing fashion, more bad news could be on the horizon for the South African tactician.
According to Persian outlet Varzesh Se, Esteghlal are facing the threat of a transfer ban due to a dispute between them and their former player Arsalan Motahari.
Motahari left the club in February 2024 after his contract was terminated, but the forward later lodged a complaint with FIFA over his dismissal, which he insisted to be unfair as no valid reason was given to him for it.
The report states that Esteghlal are yet to resolve the issue, but adds that the verdict of the case is now nearing its conclusion, which could result in a transfer ban.
Moreover, it is claimed that Ali Khatir, the former managing director of the club, was aware of the situation, having decided to terminate the player's deal believing they did so in an appropriate manner, but his successor in the role, Farshid Samiei, presented a weak defence in the case in this regard.
Furthermore, it is reported that Mosimane was not made aware of the matter upon joining the club this month, with there now being a serious possibility he will not be able to sign new players in the mid-season transfer window.
The tactician will take charge of his second game with the club against Tractor on Thursday, with his team looking to climb up the table as they are currently 12th on the Persian Gulf Pro League log.
Speaking ahead of the match, the former Abha Club boss told Tehran Times: "We know that Tractor are a tough team to play against, but we are prepared.
"We have been working hard on our tactics and our fitness, and I believe that we are ready to compete."
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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