Jovan Kirovski, who has played for Manchester United’s reserve team the past two years, has been denied a work permit by the Professional Footballers’ Association in England.
The PFA has stringent requirements for foreign players, stipulating they must play at least 75 percent of their team’s international games as well as play in a like number of first-team matches to have their work permits renewed once granted.
In recent years the PFA has come under sharp criticism for inconsistent interpretations and frequent revisions of its parameters. Because of Kirovski’s age, 20, and his American citizenship, the PFA set forth a stipulation that Manchester United had to offer him a contract comparable to that of other young players on the Manchester United roster.
According to U.S. coach Steve Sampson, United offered Kirovski contract worth approximately 150,000 pounds — but the PFA denied his permit anyway.
“”I think it’s time for Jovan to move on,” said Sampson. “”The denial of his permit proves to me that England has absolutely no interest in American players, and it’s my feeling that if there is no reciprocity on the part of England we should take the stand that players from England should be denied the opportunity to play in MLS.”
Three European clubs, including PSV Eindhoven, are said to be interested in Kirovski. He is also talking with Major League Soccer, but despite his probable inclusion on the U.S. Olympic team, is more likely to sign with a European team.
His bargaining power is limited by the Bosman decision, which allows free movement of EU nationals between countries. Most major leagues are limiting the number of non-EU players a team can sign.
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has appealed the PFA ruling, but chances it will be overturned are small.
by Soccer America Senior Editor Ridge Mahoney