Spanish footballers’ association to sue Huesca over ‘violation’ of Nwakali’s rights

Spanish Footballers’ Association (AFE) has alleged that SD Huesca violated the labour rights of Kelechi Nwakali, Super Eagles midfielder, with the premature termination of his contract.

Huesca announced it had cut ties with the Nigerian midfielder on Tuesday, without giving any reason behind the decision.

Reacting to the termination on Wednesday, Nwakali claimed he was targeted by Ruben Garcia, the club’s sporting director, because he honoured Nigeria’s invitation to the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon.

The former Nigeria U17 captain also accused the sporting director of describing the continental cup as “not being an important tournament” while threatening that “if I go to AFCON, I will not play for Huesca again”.

The 23-year-old former Arsenal player alleged that Huesca withheld his wages to force him into penning another contract for the club.

In a statement issued on the controversy, AFE said it will contest the “unilateral decision to fire the player”.

“SD Huesca notified the footballer that a disciplinary file was being opened on February 4, 2022, due to alleged events that have led to the club’s unilateral decision to fire the player,” the statement reads in part.

“Given the numerous information that is appearing, some erroneous, AFE wants to clarify that the dismissal will be challenged -as it cannot be otherwise- before the courts of the city of Huesca with the aim of continuing to safeguard the labour rights of the soccer player.

“AFE understands that, with this unilateral resolution adopted by the club, the labour rights of Kelechi Nwakali have been clearly violated.”