APOEL: Official FIFA transfer ban over El-Arabi debt
A new FIFA transfer ban has been officially imposed on APOEL following a payment delay related to the Youssef El-Arabi case.

APOEL has been hit with a new transfer ban, as the sanction is now officially recorded on FIFA's dedicated platform. This development follows a prior announcement by the club’s leadership, indicating they were aware of the pending issue that led to the restriction.
The cause of the ban
According to statements made by Chairman Harris Photiou during a press conference, the ban is linked to the case of player Youssef El-Arabi. Specifically, the penalty was imposed due to a delay in the payment of the installment scheduled for July.
Management's position
The "Blue and Yellows" leadership did not appear caught off guard by the news, as the administrative issue was already known. Photiou acknowledged the increased financial obligations and pressures the club is currently managing, providing clarity on the situation.
Steps toward resolution
APOEL’s management intends to settle the outstanding debt immediately. Once the overdue payment is completed, the club will proceed with the necessary procedures to have the FIFA ban lifted and restore its ability to register new transfers.