Hearts of Oak set to have FIFA transfer ban lifted after settling $146,000 Rene Hiddink debt

Former Hearts of Oak Technical Director Rene Hiddink has confirmed that the Ghana Premier League giants have settled their outstanding $146,000 debt owed to him, potentially clearing the way for the club’s FIFA-imposed transfer ban to be lifted.

The Phobians were hit with a transfer ban by FIFA following a dispute with Hiddink over unpaid salaries. The Dutchman had taken legal action to recover the money owed to him after his spell with the club.

The sanction prevented Hearts of Oak from registering new players and complicated their preparations for the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season.

However, the dispute now appears to have been resolved after the club fulfilled its financial obligations to the former technical director.

Speaking in an interview with Sportstiger on Original TV, Hiddink confirmed that he had received the settlement payment.

“I received my settlement payment two days ago from Accra Hearts of Oak Club,” he said.

The payment is expected to allow Hearts of Oak to submit the necessary documentation to FIFA as they seek the official lifting of the transfer ban.

Should FIFA approve the request, the Accra-based club will be able to register their new signings and complete their recruitment ahead of the new campaign.

The development will provide a significant boost to new head coach Nebojsa Kapor, who will be hoping to strengthen his squad as the Phobians target a more competitive campaign.

Hearts of Oak are scheduled to begin their 2026/27 Ghana Premier League campaign at home against Berekum Chelsea.