Aston Villa has successfully overturned FIFA’s decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), enabling the club to officially register 17-year-old forward Brian Madjo for competitive matches. FIFA had previously blocked the registration, citing regulations on international transfers of players under 18.
The Premier League confirmed on Tuesday that Villa can now register Madjo, who joined from French club Metz in January for $13.44 million. Born in England and raised in Luxembourg, Madjo has made three senior appearances for Luxembourg before representing England at the Under-17 level.
FIFA’s initial objection was based on classifying Madjo as a Luxembourg international, restricting his transfer under their rules. However, Villa contested this, emphasizing that Madjo was born in England and holds British citizenship.
In a significant development, the CAS ruling allows Madjo to be registered as an Aston Villa player and eligible for official competitions in the upcoming season. The club highlighted his promising pre-season form, where he scored four goals, including two in Villa’s opening friendly against Walsall.
This decision clears the way for Madjo to participate in Villa’s UEFA Super Cup match against European champions Paris Saint-Germain on August 12, marking a key moment in the young striker’s career.
