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Hatem Ben Arfa could be banned for rest of the season

9 years ago
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Hatem Ben Arfa could be ruled out for the rest of this season but it has got nothing to do with injury.

Agreement was reached between the winger and his representatives with Newcastle United to cancel his contract, thus allowing him to join Nice and subsequently sign an eighteen month contract.

Ben Arfa failed to make an appearance for Nice at the weekend, which was due to paperwork being sorted etc according to initial reports.

However, the news from the other side of the Channel today is that the FFF (French Football Federation) are looking into whether Hatem Ben Arfa has fallen foul of the rule which stops players appearing for more than two clubs in a single season.

Hatem has played for Hull on loan but also appeared for Newcastle in an Under 21 match against Reading back in August, something which could potentially stop him playing for Nice this season.

French radio station RMC have reported today that the English FA wrote to their French counterparts (FFF) making clear that the reserve/Under 21 match was not recognised as an official match, which they believe should allow Ben Arfa to play immediately for Nice.

The FFA have contacted FIFA and sent the letter on so they can make the final decision.

With Newcastle and Hull having zero interest in giving Hatem Ben Arfa any more games, a negative decision from FIFA would effectively mean the player would be banned from playing competitive football until next season.

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