Chennai City play down Nestor Gordillo contract claims

The Spaniard is alleged to have signed with FC Pune City without informing the southerners.

The controversy regarding I-League champions Chennai City FC and star Spaniard Nestor Gordillo's taken another turn, with the southern giants refuting claims of a breach of contract by the winger over the non-payment of bonuses. It was reported recently that the I-League champions had contacted the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to step in after reports circulated that Gordillo was trying to sign a deal with Indian Super League (ISL) side FC Pune City.

The Stallions have since denied their involvement in any potential deal, but it’s now being reported that the Spaniard had informed the Federation that his promised bonuses after clinching the league with Chennai City weren't paid. However, a top official from the side spoke to Goal on the issue and stated, “It's rubbish. He is trying to claim the bonus. We have clearly stated that we can only give the bonus once the federation gives us the prize money.

“Even if he says that it cannot be a breach of contract. We have paid salaries for every player," he added.

Moreover, speaking about his response to any potential talks with Pune City and actions thereafter, the official added, “When we first raised the question whether he signed (for FC Pune City), he said no. So, we said we will look forward to the next season with him in our plans. Then he started to push us, saying the bonus has not been paid.”

"He wants to cancel that contract to sign with another club. Why should he bring in the bonus now when the league got over many months back? He could have raised it then," he quipped.

Moreover, Gordillo's been accused of having his head turned after all his success in the I-League. On this the official further added, “He has been advised by the wrong people. We heard that he has changed his agent as well. Even if we hadn't paid him, he has to give us a 30-day notice. He hasn't done that either."

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However, the I-League champions are confident and calm about his whole ordeal and are intent on submitting definite evident to the AIFF when the parties meet at the Players Status Committee meeting on 25th June. The official added, “The primary issue here is that something was done between Pune and Nestor which is a breach of contract and we’ve told AIFF the same.”

“Obviously, Nestor wants to play in ISL. But, we shall follow due process and submit our evidence to the federation on 25th." He further explained. The Spanish winger had a dream debut season in the I-League, scoring eight goals as Chennai City dominated their way to scripting history. However, the love story between the two parties seems to have taken an ugly turn and a definite answer should be revealed over the next few weeks.