After the qualification of the Leopards, clubs denounce the retention of players beyond the FIFA deadline

The historic qualification of the Leopards for the 2026 World Cup has led to tensions between the Congolese Football Federation and European clubs regarding the retention of players beyond the 48-hour deadline after the international break. Clubs, including Espanyol de Barcelona and LOSC Lille, are denouncing this situation, particularly concerning Chancel Mbemba and Charles Pickel. The clubs have officially contacted FIFA to contest this unilateral decision by the Congolese federation.