FIFA has barred Hearts of Oak from signing players for three transfer windows because they failed to pay former Technical Director Rene Hiddink USD 150,000.
Hearts of Oak has received a three-transfer window registration restriction from FIFA after failing to settle an outstanding obligation to former Technical Director Rene Hiddink.
A letter from FIFA’s Legal and Compliance Division dated August 21, 2025, confirmed the sentence.
The Phobians were already ordered, under ruling reference FPSD-17518, to pay USD 150,000 to Hiddink within 90 days. Their inability to cooperate has resulted in disciplinary punishment.
The punishment prohibits Hearts from signing new players, both locally and internationally, for the next three transfer windows.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has been asked to carry out the decision at the national level.
This is a big setback for the Accra-based club, which has been attempting to rebuild its roster in order to return to Ghanaian football’s top division.
Without the opportunity to send in reinforcements, Hearts will face a huge task in staying competitive in the next seasons.
FIFA has taken a tough stance on the issue, emphasising its policy of stringent enforcement of financial discipline.
The governing body has repeatedly warned clubs that failing to meet contractual responsibilities to players, coaches, or technical staff may result in penalties, including transfer bans.
Pressure on Hearts of Oak
For Hearts of Oak, the only method to remove the restriction is to pay Hiddink the entire USD 150,000 owing.
Club officials are now under pressure to settle the matter swiftly, since further restrictions could harm their on-field performance and financial stability.
The development adds to the club’s recent troubles, and the failure to recruit new players could have long-term consequences.
Supporters and stakeholders will now expect the board to move quickly to protect the club’s future goals.
Meanwhile, the Phobians won their first game against Heart of Lions in the GHALCA top four event.