FIFA denies Drogba loan exemption
Didier Drogba hoped to join a club on loan before the January window opened.
Share This Story
ZURICH (AP)
FIFA has denied Didier Drogba's request for special permission to leave Shanghai Shenhua on loan before the official transfer period, ending speculation he could join former club Chelsea immediately.
FIFA says it informed Drogba he won't be exempted from international transfer rules while under contract with the Chinese Super League club, whose season ended this month.
Drogba, whose contract expires in 2014, can join another club on a permanent or temporary deal Jan. 1.
The 34-year-old Ivory Coast captain hoped to play extra matches to prepare for the African Cup of Nations, which kicks off Jan. 19 in South Africa.
FIFA upheld its rules in previous cases when making Major League Soccer players David Beckham, Thierry Henry and Landon Donovan wait until January to make loan moves.
Trending Now
-
Protests dominate headlines in Brazil
Citizens, feeling disenfranchised by government, take aim at money spent -- or wasted... -
Arsenal steps up Higuain interest
Arsenal prepares move for Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain. -
Howard leads USA by words, actions
Time to meet USA's boisterous general in defense: Tim Howard -
Torres set for Mourinho talks
Fernando Torres has brushed off speculation linking him with Barcelona by insisting h... -
No offers for Barcelona's Fabregas
Cesc Fabregas has reiterated that he has not received any offers from any clubs to te...
Member Comments
Please note by clicking on "Post comment" you acknowledge that you have read the Terms of Use and the comment you are posting is in compliance with such terms. Be Polite. Inappropriate posts may be removed by the moderator.