Mohammedan Sporting Club are set to receive a major boost ahead of the 2026-27 season, with their FIFA-imposed transfer ban lifted, allowing the Kolkata giants to return to the transfer market and strengthen their squad.

The ban had been imposed following a financial dispute involving Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kadiri. The player suffered a serious injury before the 2024-25 Indian Super League campaign, and Mohammedan SC were required to honour his contractual financial commitments despite his unavailability.

Failure to settle the outstanding dues within the stipulated period eventually led FIFA to impose a transfer embargo on the club.

The sanction had a significant impact on Mohammedan’s 2025-26 ISL campaign. Unable to register new players, the club were forced to operate without foreign signings and relied almost entirely on an Indian squad.

“There was a FIFA ban imposed on us. After that, we paid as per the rules, and we have received an acknowledged communication from FIFA, which confirmed that ‘the creditor has received the amount from Mohammedan SC. Consequently, we inform you that the proceedings are hereby closed, and its ban on registering any new player has been permanently lifted,'” a Mohammedan SC official said, reading the FIFA statement sent to them on Thursday.

Mohammedan Ban Lifted from 2027

It means that Mohammedan can transfer players from the January 2027 transfer window. With the ban now lifted, Mohammedan can once again look towards rebuilding their squad. The development is particularly important as the club prepare for their return to the Indian Football League, where they will aim to challenge for promotion back to the ISL.

However, financial stability remains a major concern. Club secretary Wasim Akram has acknowledged the difficulties faced by the Kolkata club in the absence of a major investor or sponsor. The club are also searching for fresh investment to provide a sustainable foundation for their project.