Two high-profile transfers involving N’Golo Kanté and Youssef En-Nesyri have dramatically collapsed after FIFA rejected appeals from Fenerbahce and Al Ittihad, leaving both clubs frustrated just minutes before the transfer window closed.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Kanté’s proposed move from Al Ittihad to Fenerbahce and En-Nesyri’s switch from Fenerbahce to Al Ittihad failed due to unresolved issues related to documentation and the FIFA Transfer Matching System (TMS). Despite last-ditch efforts from both clubs, FIFA did not approve the deals, effectively ending any chance of completion.
The transfers were part of a complex exchange arrangement between the two sides, with Kanté expected to return to European football while En-Nesyri would make a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia. However, complications emerged in the final stages of the process when key paperwork could not be validated in time through TMS, a mandatory digital platform used to confirm international transfers.
Sources indicate that both clubs filed appeals hoping for late approval, but FIFA maintained its stance, citing regulatory non-compliance and timing issues. As a result, Kanté will remain at Al Ittihad for the current season, while En-Nesyri stays with Fenerbahce.