Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) chief executive officer Mohammed Yusuf announced that district teams are limited to signing only three players, either from the region or overseas, during the open transfer window which began on January 1. This regulation reinforces a strategy aimed at maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of local leagues.

Yusuf emphasized that clubs typically recruit foreign players from neighboring countries such as the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, which have historically contributed notable talents to the Fijian leagues. Among them is former Solomon Islands national captain Marlon Tahioa, who has enriched the local football scene while pursuing education at the University of the South Pacific.

Interestingly, Yusuf highlighted that all players in the Digicel Fiji Premier League (DPL) do not receive salaries, as the league operates on an amateur basis. Instead, they are compensated only for training expenses, underscoring the grassroots nature of the sport in Fiji. This structure can encourage the development of local talent, as clubs rely on nurturing homegrown players to build competitive teams.

In team news, national defender Gabiriele Matanisiga has returned to training with Rewa FC after a spell at Wellington Olympic in New Zealand. Rewa, who currently hold the Digicel Fiji Premier League title, have expressed optimism about Matanisiga’s impact as they aim to maintain their winning form in the upcoming season.

As teams adapt to transfer regulations and recruitment limits, there is a potential for the emergence of fresh talent and competitive matches, promising an exciting season ahead for fans of Fijian football. The emphasis on amateurism and strategic signings fosters a unique football environment that could contribute positively to the sport’s development in Fiji.