SA Club Golden Arrows Banned By FIFA Following Dispute With Zimbabwean Striker Knox Mutizwa

Golden Arrows Banned By FIFA Following Dispute With Zimbabwean Striker Knox Mutizwa

The world football governing body, FIFA, has handed a severe transfer ban to South Africa’s Lamontville Golden Arrows. This drastic action was taken after the club failed to honour a financial settlement with their former star striker, Knox Mutizwa. The ban prevents the Durban-based side from registering any new players for three consecutive transfer windows.

According to SABC Sport, the ban was confirmed on the 18th of November 2025. The dispute stems from Mutizwa’s abrupt and mysterious departure from the club back in May. The exact reasons for the split were never publicly disclosed by either party. The Zimbabwean international, who is Abafana Bes’thende’s all-time leading goal scorer, subsequently joined their league rivals, Richards Bay.

FIFA’s Official Ruling Revealed

The sanction was detailed in an official FIFA letter seen by the publication. The document reveals that a settlement was agreed upon between Mutizwa and the club, but Golden Arrows failed to make the payment. The letter stated clearly:

“In this regard, we wish to inform the parties that a ban from registering new players internationally and nationally has been implemented by FIFA on the respondent. The registration ban will remain active until the amount due is paid and for a maximum duration of up to three entire and consecutive registration periods.”

This means the club is barred from bringing in fresh talent both from within South Africa and from abroad.

Mutizwa’s Legacy and New Beginning

Knox Mutizwa was a cornerstone of the Golden Arrows squad for years. Across two separate spells with the club, the striker spent a total of eight years, scoring an impressive 63 goals in 231 appearances. His departure left a significant void in their attacking line-up. He has, however, not let the controversy affect his form. At his new club, Richards Bay, Mutizwa has already become an influential figure, playing a key role in their recent journey to the Carling Knockout semi-finals.

A Long Road Ahead for Golden Arrows

The consequences for Golden Arrows are severe and long-lasting. With the ban in place, the club will be unable to register any new players until July 2027 unless they swiftly resolve the matter. The only way to lift the sanction is for the club to pay the outstanding amount to Mutizwa and for FIFA to receive proof of that payment. This places significant pressure on coach Manqoba Mngqithi, who must now navigate multiple seasons without the ability to strengthen his squad through new signings.

The club has not yet issued a public statement regarding the FIFA ban or the unpaid debt to their former player.