LPBank Hoang Anh Gia Lai Sports Joint Stock Company, owner of Hoang Anh Gia Lai Football Club in Vietnam’s V.League 1, has petitioned authorities to prevent former player Martin Dzilah from leaving the country after FIFA imposed a global new player registration ban on the club for failing to meet financial obligations to him.

On Friday afternoon, the company said they had submitted the petition to the Vietnam Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security, the Department of Public Security of Gia Lai Province, where the company is headquartered, and the Agency of Investigation of Social Order Crimes of Gia Lai Province. 

The club accused former player Martin Dzilah of slander, fraud, and intentionally causing discredit following the termination of his contract in March.

Hoang Anh Gia Lai FC filed the petition after learning that Dzilah was applying for exit procedures from Vietnam, fearing his departure would hinder the ongoing investigation into its financial dispute with the player. 

The club requested that authorities prevent his exit to ensure that the investigation continues properly.

It confirmed the petition’s contents and took full legal responsibility for the information provided.

Previously, Hoang Anh Gia Lai had filed a complaint with the Department of Public Security of Gia Lai Province, which summoned Dzilah for questioning twice. 

The results of the summons have not been officially disclosed. 

The situation follows a FIFA-imposed ban on Hoang Anh Gia Lai Football Club, preventing them from registering new players for three consecutive seasons due to financial disputes with Dzilah. 

The conflict began when the Ghanaian striker, who joined the club in October 2023, mutually terminated his contract in February. 

A compensation agreement was reached in March, with the club agreeing to pay Dzilah US$20,000, for which he signed a confirmation minute acknowledging receipt.

However, Dzilah did not receive the funds in his bank account and, through his representative, filed a lawsuit with FIFA’s Dispute Resolution Chamber.

On August 30, FIFA ruled that Hoang Anh Gia Lai owed Dzilah $29,000, plus interest, and ordered payment within 45 days. 

The club failed to meet the October 14 deadline and subsequently enlisted police assistance to summon Dzilah for questioning.

Dzilah is currently residing in Ho Chi Minh City and has expressed his intention to pursue legal action to seek justice and the compensation he believes he deserves.

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