Aston Villa have won their appeal over Brian Madjo, clearing the £10million striker to play competitive football for Unai Emery’s side.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport has overturned FIFA’s decision to block Villa from registering the 17-year-old. Reuters reports that Madjo can now be registered and play in official competitions this season.
It ends a lengthy wait for one of Villa’s most exciting young players after his January arrival from Metz.
Brian Madjo cleared to play for Aston Villa
Madjo was born in Enfield and holds British citizenship, but grew up in Luxembourg before joining Metz.
FIFA initially blocked his registration under regulations covering international transfers involving players under 18. Villa challenged that ruling and argued his British citizenship and birthplace should allow the transfer to proceed.
CAS has now ruled in Villa’s favour.
The decision arrives at an ideal time for Emery because Madjo has already made an impression during pre-season.
He has scored four goals this summer, including twice during Villa’s 5-0 victory over Walsall. His performances have strengthened his case for a role around the senior squad despite being only 17.
Villa paid around £10million to sign the forward in January. He had previously been unable to represent either the first team or academy in competitive fixtures because of the registration dispute.
Emery can now properly assess where Madjo fits into his plans.
His clearance also gives Villa another attacking option before the new campaign, with several significant squad decisions still being made. ReadAstonVilla reported on Wednesday that the club are also braced for another Arsenal approach for Ezri Konsa as Emery’s squad continues to take shape.
Madjo should not be expected to immediately become a regular starter. However, his size, finishing and encouraging pre-season form give Emery another option behind his established forwards.
After seven months of uncertainty, Villa can finally start finding out just how quickly their £10million investment is ready to develop.
