Former France international Lassana Diarra has reignited his long-running legal battle, launching fresh proceedings to claim £56 million in compensation from FIFA and the Belgian Football Association.
The case, which stems from a contractual dispute dating back to his aborted move to Belgian side Royal Excel Mouscron, has resurfaced after years of delays and appeals. Diarra, now 39, argues that mismanagement and regulatory failings by football’s governing bodies derailed his career and caused significant financial loss.
Diarra, who represented France at Euro 2008 and played for clubs including Chelsea, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Marseille, and PSG, insists that the compensation reflects both lost earnings and damages to his professional reputation.
Legal experts say the renewed case could spark another round of courtroom clashes between the player and football’s highest authorities, potentially setting a precedent for how governing bodies handle player contract disputes.
FIFA and the Belgian FA have yet to issue an official response to the revived claim.