Strangest transfer of the season: Because dad pays, non-football player gets a professional contract

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The Czech third division club FK Usti nad Labem is currently enjoying worldwide attention. The hype was caused by the transition of one Martin Podhajsky (22) to the first team.

Nothing special in itself – if the young man was actually a football player. But Podhajsky is not a kicker, not even an amateur. “He has never played football,” admits club chairman Pemysl Kuban.

But how does a complete newcomer get a contract in professional football?

Father buys contract

The answer is simple. And it has to do with money. Podhajsky’s father donated an amount worth almost 20,000 francs to Usti nad Labem, but in return demanded that his son be allowed to play in the first team.

An offer that President Kuban could not refuse. “As far as I know, his son has only played the game ‘Fifa’ on the console so far. But for that money I let everyone play.”

The club is also available for other activities

Podhajsky is now integrated directly into the selection and can make his football dream come true. «We are preparing the contract for Martin. Our fans will see him on the bench at the next home game,” said the club chairman.

What Podhajsky’s debut will look like has already been agreed. The newcomer should come on in the last ten minutes as a replacement for captain and striker Jakub Mares. So Podhajsky’s career starts in the center of the attack, where he can do the least damage.

It is not the first time that Usti nad Labem has appeared in the news. The club management recently gave away 1,000 season tickets and hired Miss Czech Republic 2020 as the club’s reporter.

By the way: former Swiss top talent Lorenzo Gonzalez (23, ex-ManCity) played on loan at Usti nad Labem in the 2021/22 season. He scored just one goal in 14 games. Will rookie Podhajsky top this return? That remains to be seen. (sbe)

Source : Blick