Royal AM players boycott training over unpaid salaries! The ongoing financial woes at Royal AM Football Club have reached a boiling point as players refuse to return to training due to unpaid salaries for December. This development adds to the growing list of challenges facing the club, which is now under severe scrutiny from multiple fronts, including tax authorities and FIFA.
The situation escalated following Chippa United’s statement on Monday night, confirming the postponement of their Betway Premiership clash against Royal AM, originally scheduled to take place at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. The statement noted the lack of a clear reason for the postponement, further fueling speculation about the club’s internal troubles.
An investigation by SABC Sport has revealed that Royal AM requested permission from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to reschedule their trip to Gqeberha, a request that was reportedly granted. However, Chippa United claimed they were not informed, raising concerns about the professionalism of the process.
Royal AM’s financial struggles have been well-documented over the past two years. The club is currently under a FIFA transfer ban due to a R15-million debt owed to former striker Samir Nurkovic. The situation took a dramatic turn in November when South African Revenue Services (SARS) officials, accompanied by police, raided several properties owned by club president Shauwn Mkhize.
The raid was linked to a staggering R40-million tax debt associated with Mkhize’s family trust. This financial strain has significantly impacted Royal AM’s operations, including its ability to pay players and staff. The unpaid salaries have now led to a standoff, with players refusing to train or participate in upcoming matches until their grievances are addressed.addressed
Royal AM last played on December 29, suffering a 3-1 defeat to TS Galaxy at Harry Gwala Stadium. Following the match, players were expected to return to training earlier this week to prepare for the clash against Chippa United. However, none of the players have reported for duty, citing the unresolved issue of unpaid salaries.
This player boycott not only jeopardizes the team’s preparation but also casts doubt on their ability to field a squad for future fixtures. The situation has also put additional pressure on the club’s management, which now faces the dual challenge of resolving financial disputes and maintaining its standing in the league.
Potential Consequences from SARS and FIFA
SARS could escalate its efforts to recover the outstanding tax debt by initiating the process of liquidating the club. Such a move would have devastating consequences for Royal AM, potentially leading to its dissolution.
Meanwhile, FIFA is closely monitoring the club’s continued non-compliance with its ruling to settle the debt owed to Nurkovic. If the situation remains unresolved, FIFA could impose severe sanctions, including docking points or even liquidating the club.
Broader Implications for South African Football
The crisis at Royal AM highlights broader issues within South African football, including financial mismanagement and the lack of robust oversight mechanisms. Clubs facing financial difficulties often struggle to meet their obligations, leading to disputes with players, staff, and governing bodies.
The PSL and other stakeholders must address these systemic issues to prevent similar crises in the future. Ensuring financial transparency and accountability will be crucial to safeguarding the integrity and sustainability of South African football.
What Lies Ahead for Royal AM?
For Royal AM, the immediate priority will be to resolve the salary dispute and avoid further sanctions from FIFA and SARS. However, with mounting debts and a growing sense of uncertainty, the road ahead looks increasingly difficult.
Club president Shauwn Mkhize and her management team will need to take decisive action to stabilize the situation and rebuild trust with players, staff, and fans. Whether they can navigate these challenges remains to be seen, but the stakes could not be higher for Royal AM and its future in South African football.