Indian international footballer Manisha Kalyan has successfully navigated a challenging situation in her pursuit of a European football career. After two successful years playing for Apollon Ladies in Cyprus, Kalyan signed a pre-contract agreement with Brooklyn FC of the USL Super League in the USA. However, Brooklyn FC failed to uphold their end of the agreement, prompting Kalyan to seek recourse through FIFA’s Dispute Resolution Chamber (DRC).
The DRC ruled in Kalyan’s favor, acknowledging that Brooklyn FC had breached the contract and awarding her compensation. The DRC’s decision highlights the seriousness with which FIFA views contractual obligations in international football.
Kalyan’s legal representative, Marcos Ruano, explained that Brooklyn FC had initially shown enthusiasm for the partnership, but then ceased communication. This left Kalyan in a difficult position, unable to sign with other clubs. Ruano and his legal team, SILA Law Company, took the matter to FIFA, citing Brooklyn FC’s violation of the pre-contract agreement.
The case underscores the importance of clarity and adherence to contractual agreements in the global football landscape. While Brooklyn FC has yet to fulfill its financial obligations, Kalyan has moved on, signing with FC PAOK in Greece. She is now set to compete in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, hoping to replicate her previous successes on the international stage. This case serves as a reminder that even in the world of professional sports, legal frameworks exist to protect athletes’ rights and ensure fair play.
