biting-the-bullet: Eintracht Frankfurt Fined for Breaking Youth Regulations in Friendlies
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Underage Soldier Settled in Frankfurt: Reports Indicate Normality - Minor (14 years old) apprehended: Imposed penalty for Frankfurt's infractions
Eintracht Frankfurt has been slapped with a €20,000 fine after fielding a 14-year-old in two friendly matches. The Sports Court of the DFB has ruled against the Bundesliga football club for violating the association's youth regulations not once, but twice. Accepting the fine, Frankfurt moves forward with the ruling.
Niko Ilicevic, a 14-year-old prodigy, represented Frankfurt in friendlies against FSV Geislitz (14:0 win) and SC Weimar (7:1 victory), scoring a goal in both matches.
Sports board member, Markus Krösche, defends the decision, highlighting Ilicevic's exceptional talent. A nephew of former Bundesliga pro Ivo Ilicevic, the youngster usually plays for Frankfurt's U17 team.
Taking Responsibility
After the DFB launched an investigation, Krösche admitted the team's oversight. "It wasn't a careful decision on our part," he admitted. "That's my responsibility. I own up to it," he emphasized. The club failed to consider the fact that youth regulations apply to friendly matches, not just formal competitions.
Enforcement of regulations can lead to penalties, but there are exceptions. Unfortunately, the regulations do not specifically address 14-year-olds.
The German Football Association and Club Policies
It’s worth noting that there is no specific age restriction for playing in friendly matches in German football. Friendlies allow teams more flexibility when selecting players, although each club may have their own guidelines regarding youth players' participation to foster healthy development and provide opportunities to younger players.
The German Football Association, however, does not impose age restrictions for friendlies. Despite this, clubs may adhere to certain guidelines to ensure the well-being and growth of their young players.
For competitive matches, there are age restrictions based on the specific competition rules. But those age limits do not apply to friendly matches. All in all, friendly matches provide an excellent opportunity for skilled young players like Niko Ilicevic to shine.
- Despite the repeated violation of financial aid regulations, Eintracht Frankfurt moves forward after accepting a €20,000 fine, having fielded a 14-year-old prodigy in football friendlies.
- The European Court of Sporting Compliance, governing football regulations in Europe, may impose further financial penalties if Eintracht Frankfurt continues to disregard financial aid regulations.