Serhiy Palkin, the general manager of Shakhtar, has publicly criticized FIFA for what he describes as a failure to communicate and support Ukrainian clubs. He argues that while clubs can sign players, FIFA does little to help clear debts or negotiate with clubs owed money. In his view, FIFA has adopted a stance that ignores Ukrainian football’s needs, a position he says harms the sport and its teams. These remarks were shared during an open discussion with Tribuna, which reported the comments. Tribuna.
Palkin has said that the issue requires formal action beyond FIFA’s channels. He revealed plans to submit an application to the European Commission, alleging violations of European competition law by FIFA. The claim focuses on how FIFA rules interact with contract suspensions and the broader governance of football across Europe. The general manager contends that a more robust, legally grounded approach is necessary to address what he sees as an unfair and obstructive framework for Ukrainian clubs. The statement signals a broader strategy aimed at securing oversight and accountability at the European level. Tribuna covered these remarks.
To put the situation in perspective, it helps to recall a FIFA press release from the previous year stating that foreign players and coaches could suspend their contracts with Russian and Ukrainian clubs until 30 June 2023. That policy shift affected how clubs managed player rights during a period of upheaval and transition. Shakhtar Donetsk responded by taking legal steps through the Court of Arbitration for Sport to seek relief or modification of the policy that allowed unilateral suspensions for foreign players. This legal action underscored the tension between national clubs and global governing bodies as teams faced economic and competitive pressures. Tribuna reported these developments at the time.
As events unfolded, Shakhtar found itself with a squad featuring several foreign players and competing in European tournaments. The club advanced to the Round of 16 in the Europa League, underscoring the ongoing dynamics of talent mix and international competition within Ukrainian football. Palkin’s critique of FIFA remained central to the club’s public narrative, reflecting broader concerns among Ukrainian teams about governance, debt management, and international relations in football. His comments highlighted what he sees as a mismatch between club needs and the policies set by global authorities, a point he argues warrants independent scrutiny and intervention at the European level. Tribuna continued to document these themes.
In more recent remarks, Palkin reiterated his stance that FIFA’s approach contributes to the financial strain on Ukrainian clubs. He called for more direct dialogue, clearer debt resolution mechanisms, and stronger enforcement of fair play and antitrust principles across the sport. While acknowledging the complexities of managing a high-profile club amid regional volatility, he pressed for a governance framework that reflects the realities on the ground for Ukrainian teams. The overarching message emphasized accountability and reform, with a focus on protecting the long-term viability of clubs like Shakhtar in international competition. Tribuna continued to follow the evolving responses from FIFA and European institutions.