Elite Ladies FC's Controversy: Xiomala Mapepa's Alleged Illegal Move to Turkey

25.03.2024 | Football in my DNA

In a surprising turn of events, Xiomala Mapepa, the renowned forward of The Elite Ladies FC and the Zambian Copper Queens, has officially completed her move to Turkish giants, Galatasaray SK. However, amidst the celebratory announcements, the club's CEO, Shalala Oliver Sepiso, has raised serious allegations regarding the legality of Mapepa's transfer.

Key Points Raised by The Elite Ladies FC:

1. Contractual Obligations: Mapepa remains under contract with The Elite Ladies FC until May 31, 2025. The club asserts that there has been no formal termination of her contract, and the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has not communicated any such termination to them.

2. FAZ's Role: Despite the club's explicit instructions to FAZ not to proceed with Mapepa's International Transfer Certificate (ITC), FAZ allegedly processed the transfer without the club's consent. The club intends to address this issue with FAZ and FIFA, considering the move as illegal.

3. Financial Compliance: The Elite Ladies FC claims to have maintained financial compliance by making timely payments to Mapepa, including payments for March 2024. They have provided proof of payments to FAZ.

4. Player's Suspension: Mapepa's absence from recent matches was reportedly due to a suspension for substance abuse, a matter that was duly reported to FAZ.

5. Agent's Involvement: The club alleges that Mapepa's transfer was facilitated by an agent, Chileshe Darlton, under an invalid contract. Mapepa had an existing agreement with ProSport International and Kinetic Sports Consultants, which was allegedly not terminated before signing with Darlton.

6. FAZ's Accountability: The club urges FAZ to explain how the transfer occurred without their knowledge or blessing. They express confidence in FAZ's leadership to address the matter appropriately.

7. Conclusion: The Elite Ladies FC seeks fair compensation for Mapepa's transfer and wishes her success in her future endeavors. They appreciate Mapepa's contributions to the club and hope for a resolution once the transfer is regularized.

The Elite Ladies FC's allegations shed light on the complexities and controversies surrounding Mapepa's transfer to Galatasaray SK. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders await further clarification and resolution from the involved parties.