Title: Esteghlal Awaits CAS Verdict on Crucial Transfer Window Appeal
Introduction: A High-Stakes Legal Battle
Esteghlal Football Club is engaged in a significant legal process, appealing a decision that currently prevents the team from registering new players. The club’s leadership has expressed strong confidence in its position, citing a comprehensive collection of evidence and the expertise of its legal team. The outcome of this appeal, expected to be heard by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), is critical for the club’s competitive prospects.
The Core of the Dispute: The Case of Waiter Mohammed
The situation stems from the club’s contract with Iraqi player Waiter Mohammed, who joined Esteghlal on a two-year deal in the summer of 2023. Following internal disagreements at the club, the player was loaned to Mes Rafsanjan. Esteghlal later made the decision to unilaterally terminate his contract, a move that subsequently led to a ruling against the club and the imposition of a transfer ban.
Club Leadership Voices Confidence and Hope
In a recent statement, the Chairman of Esteghlal’s Board of Directors clarified the club’s determined stance. He described the initial ruling as “unjust” but emphasized that the club is seriously pursuing its rights.
“The issue with Waiter Mohammed was straightforward from the beginning, but unfortunately, some oversights complicated the situation,” he stated. “However, we have strong arguments. The club, in cooperation with individuals involved in the case from the start, has gathered excellent documentation and placed it in the hands of highly skilled lawyers.”
He confirmed that the appeal has been formally submitted, adding, “We hope to shortly obtain a provisional order to reopen our transfer window, and subsequently, for this problem to be completely resolved.”
A Parallel Effort: The Foreign Player Quota
In a related development, the Chairman also addressed efforts to restore a foreign player slot that the club had forfeited for not utilizing two players from Bosnia. He noted that Esteghlal has submitted all required documentation to the league organization and that recent correspondence has been promising.
“Certain assurances have been made to us in this regard, though nothing is official yet. We are hopeful it will happen,” he commented. Should the quota be reinstated, Esteghlal would be cleared to add players such as Masharipov or Joel Kojo to their squad, providing a significant boost to the team’s options.