MONROVIA – Liberian midfielder Jenkins Sieh has been officially released by FK Apolonia, an Albanian football club, amid growing controversy surrounding the treatment of several Liberian players reportedly left stranded and unpaid in the southeastern European nation.
A release letter obtained by The Liberian Investigator confirmed Sieh’s termination from the club, just days after distressing videos circulated online showing Liberian footballers allegedly abandoned by their club with no financial support.
Unpaid Salaries and Deteriorating Living Conditions
Sieh and fellow Liberian player Augustine Mulbah Jr. arrived in Albania on Feb. 10, 2025, to begin their contracts with FK Apolonia. They were later joined by Robin Hney, a striker from Fassell FC, and George Wallace, both of whom are believed to have returned to Liberia.
The players joined FK Apolonia through a partnership with ES Sport Management, with hopes of advancing their careers on the international stage. However, according to reports from European-based sources, the players have not received any salaries since their arrival.
With no income, they have reportedly been forced to share a small room and live under harsh conditions, surviving on minimal resources and without the means to return to Liberia.
Contract Termination Without Compensation
On May 19, FK Apolonia officially terminated Sieh’s contract. In a letter signed by club administrator Bleaon Pasho, the club stated:
“This is to attest that player Jenkins Sieh, born in Monrovia, Republic of Liberia, identified with passport number PP0250022, is a free agent and has no obligation with FK Apolonia.”
The statement, however, made no mention of the unresolved issue of unpaid wages that Sieh says he has raised multiple times.
Club President Koco Kokedhima, when contacted for comment, declined to elaborate on the unpaid salary claims. Instead, he redirected all inquiries to Edi Schmickl, the agent who facilitated the players’ move. Kokedhima described the situation as unfortunate but accused the players of unprofessional conduct.
“I Only Have $20 Left”
In an interview with The Liberian Investigator, Sieh confirmed he had received the release letter but said his situation has since worsened. He is set to vacate his shared room by Friday and is now at risk of becoming homeless.
“I only have $20 left for food, and I don’t have money to get back to Monrovia. I am begging for help,” Sieh said.
He revealed that he personally financed his travel to Albania and now has no financial means to return home. Sieh is appealing to the Government of Liberia, the Liberia Football Association (LFA), Paynesville FC, and humanitarian organizations for immediate support.
Growing Concerns Over Welfare of Liberian Athletes Abroad
The situation has sparked renewed concern over the safety and welfare of Liberian footballers pursuing professional opportunities overseas. Advocates are now calling for better oversight of international transfer agreements and for the Liberian government to intervene.
As Sieh waits for a lifeline, his story serves as a stark reminder of the risks young African footballers face abroad, where dreams of professional success can too easily turn into a struggle for survival.
Discussion about this post