According to several sources from several nations with knowledge of the matter, the world governing body of football has made certain payments, but not the last one.
The amounts are reportedly crucial, and many of the impacted athletes are now unemployed or retired.
The funds were supposed to come from FIFA’s external Fund for Players, which was established in 2020. In September 2023, the unpaid invoices were due.
A correspondence from a national union to FIFA, seen by Sport, lists over 30 players and emphasizes the financial challenges.
A total of £3.09 million is owing to 420 players.
The global players’ union, Fifpro, and FIFA are now at odds over modifications to the international games schedule.
Supported by the Professional Footballers’ Association, Fifpro feels that players at the top end of the game are being asked to do too much, which could put them at danger for more injuries.