'I'm Doing This For You' - Ex-Chelsea, Arsenal, Real Madrid Star Seeks FIFA, Belgian FA Compensation in €65 million Standoff

Former France international Lassana Diarra has declared victory after the Court of Justice of the European Union (ECJ) sided with him in a long-running legal dispute against FIFA and the Belgian Football Association, paving the way for a €65 million damages claim.

The 39-year-old, who enjoyed spells at Chelsea, Arsenal, Real Madrid and Marseille, has been locked in a legal battle since 2014, when he unilaterally terminated his three-season contract with Lokomotiv Moscow. 

A Russian court initially ordered him to pay €8.2 million in compensation, but Diarra successfully challenged the ruling with the backing of FIFPRO, the international players’ union.

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The ECJ found that elements of FIFA’s transfer regulations were in breach of EU law, violating principles of free movement of workers and competition law. The Court stressed that the transfer system unfairly restricted players’ rights to terminate their contracts without just cause.

Damages have been estimated at €65 million, calculated by competition law specialists Compass Lexecon. Diarra’s case, now known as the “Diarra Ruling,” could set a precedent for other footballers seeking redress.

In an emotional statement, the former midfielder explained his motivation for pursuing justice for over a decade.

“I have been forced to wage this legal fight since August 2014. More than 11 years have passed! I’m doing this for myself — and if I’ve managed to withstand FIFA’s pressure, it’s because I had a good career. 

“But I also did it for all the lesser-known players who lack the financial and psychological means to challenge FIFA before real judges.”

Diarra accused FIFA and the Belgian FA of ignoring the ECJ’s ruling and refusing to pursue an amicable settlement despite overtures from FIFPRO.

“It reflects a persistent culture of contempt for the rule of law and for players, despite the very clear message sent by the ECJ. With great regret, we will have to justify ourselves before the judges again, as I have no other option.”

Diarra also welcomed the creation of the Justice for Players foundation, which is preparing a class action in the Netherlands to secure compensation for players disadvantaged by FIFA’s rules.

“Finally, I am glad that the ‘Diarra Ruling’ has paved the way for the ‘Justice for Players’ foundation to initiate a class action. 

“This will allow all players — not just those like me who suffered specific damages — to obtain compensation without upfront legal costs and without disclosing their identity.”

With FIFPRO Europe and national unions backing him, Diarra’s fight may prove a watershed moment in reshaping football’s transfer system — one that places players’ rights at the center of the game’s governance.