Aston Villa are planning to challenge FIFA in court regarding one of their winter signings, a situation that has left the player frustrated.
Aston Villa’s transfer business seems set to include finding a solution for their winter signing, who has been unable to play for the club after making his move to Villa Park. Brian Madjo, one of their signings in January 2026, has grown restless due to FIFA’s rejection of his registration.
According to a report from the Express and Star, the West Midlands side are planning to take action.
“Aston Villa are going to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in a bid to finally register £10 million signing Brian Madjo.”
They are planning to appeal to CAS in Switzerland regarding FIFA’s decision. The case will be heard on July 1.
The 17-year-old Brian Madjo cannot yet play for any of Aston Villa’s teams, including the U21s, due to FIFA regulations on transfers. He cannot be registered as he is still considered a minor, or a player under 18 years old, coming from abroad. It is the minimum age requirement for foreign players under current FIFA regulations.
That means Madjo would have to wait until next January, when he turns 18, to make his debut. Consequently, the former Metz man can only take part in training sessions but not official matches.
However, The Claret and Blue disagree with the ruling as Madjo was born in Enfield, England, but grew up abroad, specifically in Luxembourg. The young striker has played for Luxembourg U16. He also represented England U17 as captain in several friendly games.
The problem arises because he already holds Luxembourg nationality. Madjo has even made three appearances for them in friendly matches last year against Sweden, Switzerland, and Slovenia. As a result, FIFA considers him an international player despite being born in the UK.
Madjo joined Aston Villa in January 2026 from Ligue 1 side Metz. He was promoted to the first team in 2025 following his impressive form with the U19 team. The forward of Cameroonian descent scored 13 goals in 27 games for the U19s, while also contributing two goals and one assist for Metz B, the club’s reserve side.
He even played five games in Ligue 1 last season before switching to England. Madjo featured in the first three matches against Strasbourg, Lyon, and Paris FC, as well as two other games against Marseille and AJ Auxerre.
According to data from FotMob, Madjo appears to have the potential to develop well. He excels most in aerial duels, winning as many as 60% of them. Meanwhile, his pass completion rate stands at 55.6%, while he has recorded two defensive contributions and committed three fouls.
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