Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
— [02/09/2025] –
Phoenix Athletics Sports Limited (PASL) has reaffirmed its strong stance against the practice of coaches owning players’ economic rights, emphasizing the need to protect young talents, preserve fair competition, and uphold the integrity of the game.
Speaking on the issue, the company stressed that coaches are entrusted with guiding, developing, and mentoring players—not profiting from their contracts. When coaches hold economic stakes in players, it creates a direct conflict of interest, as decisions on team selection or player development may be influenced by financial gain rather than the best interests of the young talents or the team.
Phoenix Athletics further noted that such practices expose players, particularly young and aspiring talents to exploitation. “Many players lack the resources or legal knowledge to negotiate fairly, leaving them vulnerable to signing away their rights under pressure. Young talents deserve protection, not manipulation,” the statement read. “Their careers and dreams must not be subjected to private ownership by those meant to mentor them.”
The company also highlighted that Article 18 of FIFA’s Rules on the Status and Transfer of Players restricted the practice and outlawed third-party ownership of players’ economic rights to prevent corruption and abuse. Allowing coaches to act as economic stakeholders undermines these global standards, encourages unethical transfer practices, and threatens the credibility of the sport.
“At Phoenix Athletics Sports Limted, we believe coaching is about leadership, mentorship, and trust,” the release concluded. “We remain committed to building a transparent, player-centered environment where young talents can thrive without fear of exploitation. Protecting the rights of players is not only a legal duty but a moral responsibility for all stakeholders in football.”
