MONROVIA — A group of Liberian footballers recently returned home after a turbulent stint with FK Apolonia in Albania, but have so far refused to speak publicly about the ordeal — leaving unanswered questions about alleged contract breaches and unpaid wages.
Midfielder Jenkins Sieh, one of the central figures in the controversy, arrived at Roberts International Airport on Saturday, May 24. When approached by reporters, Sieh declined to comment, days after footage went viral showing stranded Liberian players in Albania.
Also back in Liberia are Robin Hney, George Wallace, and Augustine Mulbah Jr., all of whom have remained silent amid mounting concerns over the treatment of African players abroad.
Contract Terminations and Financial Hardship
A letter obtained by The Liberian Investigator on May 19 confirmed that FK Apolonia had terminated the contracts of several Liberian players. The letter, signed by club administrator Bleaon Pasho, certified Sieh’s free-agent status but made no mention of the unpaid salaries that players claim forced them into destitution.
“This is to attest that player Jenkins Sieh… is a free agent and has no obligation with FK Apolonia,” the statement read.
The club’s president, Koco Kokedhima, has denied wrongdoing, instead shifting blame onto the players’ agent, Edi Schmickl, whom he accused of mishandling the situation. Schmickl has not publicly responded to the allegations.
Stranded and Unpaid
Before departing Albania, Sieh posted a public appeal for assistance, revealing he had just $20 left and no means of returning to Liberia.
“I only have $20 left for food, and I don’t have money to get back to Monrovia. I am begging for help,” he said.
The midfielder also disclosed that he personally funded his trip to Albania in hopes of advancing his career — a decision that left him financially stranded.
His plea triggered public outcry and calls for urgent intervention from the Liberian government, the Liberia Football Association (LFA), Paynesville FC, and humanitarian organizations.
Hney Severs Ties With Agent
On May 13, prior to Sieh’s arrival, Robin Hney had returned home and posted a message on Facebook terminating his partnership with agent Edi Schmickl and his agency, ES Sports Management.
“Thanks to ES Sports Management. I’ll forever cherish our memories,” he wrote.
The statement ended a four-year collaboration, though Hney offered no additional context regarding the breakdown of the relationship.
Calls for Reform and Oversight
The FK Apolonia saga has reignited debate in Liberia about the vulnerability of footballers seeking careers abroad, especially in lower-tier European clubs where oversight is often weak.
Player advocates are urging the LFA and relevant government agencies to implement stricter safeguards on international transfers — including mandatory contract vetting and emergency repatriation support for stranded athletes.
While the players’ silence may reflect trauma or legal caution, it has also deepened the mystery surrounding the exact nature of their time in Albania.
For now, the returnees’ ordeal stands as a stark warning about the risks young African footballers face in the pursuit of international opportunities — and the urgent need for better protection at home and abroad.
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