Former Hearts of Oak Technical Director Rene Hiddink has confirmed that he has received the $146,000 settlement owed to him by the Ghana Premier League giants, a development that could pave the way for the club’s FIFA-imposed transfer ban to be lifted.
The Phobian Club were sanctioned by FIFA following a dispute with Hiddink over unpaid salaries. The Dutchman subsequently took legal action against the club to recover the outstanding payments.
The dispute resulted in a transfer ban that prevented the Phobians from registering new players, complicating their preparations for the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season.
However, the matter now appears to have been resolved after Hearts of Oak settled their financial obligation to their former technical director.
Speaking in an interview with Sportstiger on Original TV, Hiddink confirmed that he had received the payment.
“I received my settlement payment two days ago from Accra Hearts of Oak Club,” he said.
The settlement is expected to allow Hearts of Oak to submit the necessary documentation to FIFA as they seek the formal lifting of the transfer ban.
Should FIFA approve the request, the Accra-based club will be able to register their new signings and complete their recruitment ahead of the new campaign.
The development will be a major boost for new head coach Nebojsa Kapor, who is expected to strengthen his squad as Hearts of Oak aim for a more competitive season.
The Phobians are scheduled to begin their 2026/27 Ghana Premier League campaign at home against Berekum Chelsea.
