Accra Hearts of Oak are working with FIFA to clear the debt owed to former technical director René Hiddink, even as the matter shifts into the Ghanaian courts.

Hiddink, who signed a three-year contract in 2023, left the Phobians just eight months into his tenure after the club terminated his deal without paying full compensation. The Dutchman lodged a complaint with FIFA, which subsequently imposed a transfer ban on Hearts until the outstanding $150,000 is settled.

Club’s Position

Communications Director Kwame Opare Addo confirmed in an interview with Asempa FM that Hiddink has now escalated the matter locally, but stressed that the club remains committed to FIFA’s directives:

“René Hiddink has taken our debt case to a Ghanaian court despite the FIFA ruling, but Hearts of Oak is complying with FIFA directives to settle the outstanding debt owed to him.”

He added:

“Hearts of Oak aren’t reluctant to settle our debt with René Hiddink.”

Current Situation


  • Debt owed: $150,000 to René Hiddink

  • Sanction: Transfer ban until payment is completed

  • League form: Sixth in the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League with 18 points from 11 matches

This case underscores the off-field challenges facing Hearts of Oak, as the club balances compliance with FIFA rulings, local legal proceedings, and the need to strengthen its squad amid a difficult league campaign.