The Fiji Football Association has announced that as of January 1, district teams are now allowed to sign a maximum of three players from either the region or overseas for the new season. Mohammed Yusuf, the chief executive officer of Fiji FA, confirmed this development as the official transfer window opened.
Yusuf noted that, traditionally, clubs in Fiji often recruit players from neighboring countries like Solomon Islands and Vanuatu to bolster their rosters. Notable past signings include Marlon Tahioa, former captain of the Solomon Islands national team, who played for several clubs while pursuing studies at the University of the South Pacific.
In a significant point regarding player status, Yusuf highlighted that no players in the Digicel Fiji Premier League receive salaries; all participants are classified as amateur athletes. Instead of salaries, these players only receive reimbursements for their training expenses, making the financial structure of the league unique within regional football contexts.
In recent team news, Gabiriele Matanisiga, a national defender, has returned to training with Rewa FC. After being cleared to play for Wellington Olympic in New Zealand last season, his return is seen as a positive addition for the reigning champions of the Digicel Fiji Premier League.
As teams prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season, the transfer window serves as an excellent opportunity to reinforce their squads. With the imposition of a limit on foreign signings and a continuous emphasis on amateur status, it encourages clubs to focus on nurturing local talent and potentially leading to a more competitive league environment in the future.
Summary: The Fiji Football Association’s transfer window allows teams to enhance their rosters by signing three players each from the region or overseas. The league operates under an amateur status with no paid salaries for players. Gabiriele Matanisiga’s return to Rewa FC signals a strong move for the defending champions, showcasing the transfer period as crucial for teams aiming to strengthen ahead of the season.
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