Persis Solo found themselves in a legal quandary after being forced to play without their Irish midfielder Fuad Sule for the foreseeable future, starting with their 3-0 defeat to Persija Jakarta on August 16.
The 28-year-old defensive midfielder was conspicuously absent from the matchday squad at the Manahan Stadium, despite playing a key role in Persis Solo’s opening-day victory over Madura United on August 9. His omission immediately sparked questions from fans and media alike.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, head coach Peter de Roo revealed that Sule was serving a suspension carried over from his time in Northern Ireland.
“First of all, regarding Fuad, we received a letter this week stating that he had issues in his final match in Northern Ireland,” de Roo explained. “Something happened there, and an investigation was ongoing which we weren’t aware of. As a result, FIFA issued a ban on him.”
“We’ve already informed PSSI that he is currently ineligible to play,” he added.
While Persis are expected to release an official statement soon, indications suggest that Sule could be sidelined for several matches. De Roo also admitted the club might consider signing an additional foreign player if the suspension stretches long term.
Reports indicate that Sule’s suspension stems from his stint at Glentoran FC in the Northern Irish Premiership back in April 2025. During a heated European play-off clash with Larne FC, a post-match brawl broke out involving players and staff from both sides. According to BBC Sport, eight individuals were sanctioned by the Irish FA, including Sule, who received a nine-match ban. Both clubs were also fined £1,000 for each player and staff member penalized in the incident.
With Sule apparently serving part of his suspension during the Madura United match, questions could be raised about his eligibility in that fixture. Should rivals such as Madura United file a formal inquiry with the PSSI and league organizers, Persis risk serious consequences if found guilty of fielding an ineligible player — including forfeiting their opening win and facing additional point deductions.
For now, Persis Solo must carefully navigate both the legal and sporting ramifications of Sule’s case. How the club manages the fallout will not only impact their standing this season but could also test the depth of their squad and the resilience of their campaign moving forward.