Jan 20, 2015
Ben Arfa's debut for Nice still on hold after French federation delays ruling
The French football federation is asking FIFA to clarify its position over the transfer of Hatem Ben Arfa to Nice before deciding whether to clear him to play. Ben Arfa joined Nice earlier this month but the French midfielder has yet to make his debut because of uncertainties about the status of an Under 21 match he played for Newcastle before moving to Hull City on loan.
The Canadian Press
PARIS - The French football federation is asking FIFA to clarify its position over the transfer of Hatem Ben Arfa to Nice before deciding whether to clear him to play.
Ben Arfa joined Nice earlier this month but the French midfielder has yet to make his debut because of uncertainties about the status of an Under 21 match he played for Newcastle before moving to Hull City on loan.
Under FIFA regulations, a player can only appear for two teams in a season. But Nice and the English FA are adamant that the U21 game should not be regarded as an official match.
The French federation has so far refused to allow Ben Arfa to be registered and is asking FIFA to "decide quickly on the official character of the U21 match."