FIFA bans River Plate's Giuliano Galoppo for six months over significant debt

River Plate midfielder Giuliano Galoppo has been banned from playing official matches for six months by FIFA due to a substantial debt owed to his former agent, Leandro Escudero. The ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne mandates Galoppo to pay Escudero over $530,000 and 4,387,000 pesos.

FIFA issued a statement confirming the restriction on the player, who is not currently being considered by coach Eduardo Coudet. This measure, initially warned in February, has now been enforced, along with a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs (approximately US$6,170).

The disciplinary body's decision states that the "restriction to play official matches has been implemented by FIFA on the defendant." The ban is active immediately and will remain in place until the full amount is paid, with a maximum duration of six months. The CAS ruling became final after an order of termination was issued by the body.

In February, FIFA had already increased the financial penalty against Galoppo, imposing additional obligations. He was required to pay Escudero US$360,000 plus interest, along with 4,477,000 pesos plus interest, and US$530,000 plus interest, all with annual interest rates of 12% dating back to March 2021 and March 2022. FIFA also imposed a separate 5,000 Swiss franc fine.

The FIFA communication requests the Argentine Football Association (AFA) to immediately implement the national-level restriction and ensure both the AFA and River Plate notify the player promptly. The club had previously indicated they would not intervene, considering it a private matter between the player and his former manager. The suspension comes at a difficult time for Galoppo, as he is not part of coach Eduardo Coudet's plans.

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...a restriction to play official matches was implemented by FIFA on the defendant.