Vietnamese football club seeks to prevent departure of strange player due to money dispute

The organization said on Friday evening that it had sent an appeal to the Vietnam Immigration Department, the Ministry of Public Security, the Gia Lai Provincial Public Security Department, where the organization is based, and the Gia Lai Provincial Social Evils Investigation Agency.

The club blamed former player Martin Dzilah for defamation, false representation and intentional sabotage after his contract ended in the spring.

Hoang Anh Gia Lai FC took note of the request after discovering that Dzilah was applying for leave in Vietnam, fearing that his departure would hinder ongoing checks on the player’s finances.

The club said experts had prevented his departure to ensure the exam was conducted in accordance with regulations.

It confirmed the required items and gained a sense of ownership with the data provided.

Previously, Hoang Anh Gia Lai had reported to Gia Lai Provincial Police twice, summoning Dzilah to resolve the matter.

The consequences of this request have not yet been officially announced.

This situation occurred after FIFA imposed a restriction on Hoang Anh Gia Lai Football Club, not allowing them to recruit new players for three consecutive seasons due to financial problems with Dzilah.

The dispute began when the Ghanaian striker, who joined the club in October 2023, frequently terminated his contract in February.

A salary agreement was reached in the spring, in which the club agreed to pay Dzilah US$20,000, and he signed a receipt confirming the receipt.

However, Dzilah still did not receive the assets in his balance sheet and, through his representative, filed a complaint with FIFA’s Dispute Resolution Chamber.

On 30 August, FIFA ruled that Hoang Anh Gia Lai owed Dzilah $29,000, plus interest, and demanded payment in installments within 45 days or less.

The club failed to meet the deadline on 14 October and therefore requested police assistance to summon Dzilah to settle the matter.

Dzilah is currently living in Ho Chi Minh City and has expressed his desire to pursue legal action to seek justice and a salary that he accepts is fair.