FIFA sanctions Leo Messi’s boyhood club

World 11 September 2025 at 06:11

A heavy blow for Newell’s Old Boys. The club where Messi began his career received official notification from FIFA on Tuesday, imposing a severe penalty.

The Rosario-based club is now banned from signing new players in the next three transfer windows. This decision has a direct impact on the team’s sporting plans, complicating squad building for both domestic competitions and international tournaments. The sanction takes effect immediately, placing the club in a precarious situation right in the middle of the season.

⚠️ @GerGarciaGrova is reporting that Newell's Old Boys are set to be given a TRANSFER BAN by FIFA over unpaid debts.

This would be an unforgivable end to the reign of the Ignacio Astore presidency with elections looming in December. #Newells pic.twitter.com/tOaFu1fM4Q
— Newell's Old Boys - English News (@Newells_en) September 10, 2025

According to the Argentine press, the club’s management is already exploring possible options to appeal and try to reduce or lift the ban. For Newell’s, this case presents a real sporting and administrative headache, just as “La Lepra” was looking to strengthen its squad for the remainder of the season.

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