Overview

• Diarra is seeking €65 million in damages from FIFA and the Belgian FA after efforts to reach an amicable settlement failed.
• His lawyers say Belgian courts could deliver a decision within 12–15 months as national proceedings resume following the CJEU judgment.
• The EU court ruled in October that the previous transfer system hindered free movement and competition and imposed disproportionate legal, financial and sporting risks.
• In 2014 FIFA ordered Diarra to pay €10 million and imposed a backdated 15‑month suspension, which derailed a proposed move to Belgian club Charleroi.
• FIFA has adopted an interim regulatory framework and now faces related class‑action claims filed this month in the Netherlands that could cover tens of thousands of players.