The Kelantan Football Association (KAFA) sent shockwaves among local football fans as they announced the signing of a new import player, French forward L’Imam Seydi.
KAFA had just signed a new import, Abou Bakr al Mel about two weeks ago, to replace their Lebanese forward Mohamed Ghaddar. While that deal was approved by FMLLP (Football Malaysia LLP), the second deal was not.
“FMLLP have only received one application from KAFA with regards to the transfer and new registration of one foreign player. We did not receive an application to register two new foreign players.” FMLLP’s CEO Kevin Ramalingam said.
“Even if we did receive a second application — we would be unable to give our approval as KAFA are still being sanctioned by a transfer restriction, which is due to issues surrounding mandatory and statutory payments which KAFA have yet to resolve.” the CEO added.
KAFA have been under fire for the longest time for not settling their former player’s and coach’s pending wages. KAFA’s adviser, Tan Sri Annuar Musa has time and again appealed for more time, citing the lack of funds as the reason they are unable to pay.
But somehow, KAFA always seem to have enough funds to purchase new imports.
Kevin Ramalingam also hopes the proceeds from Mohammed Ghaddar’s transfer to Johor Darul Ta’zim that was approved recently was used to settle outstanding wages, so FMLLP can lift their transfer restriction on KAFA. Otherwise, the restriction will remain in place.
32-year-old L’Imam Seydi arrived in Kota Bharu this week and will go through medical and fitness tests before he is registered as a Kelantan player.
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