“Not acceptable to us” – Schalke 04 slam New York City FC after Sylla transfer collapses

Schalke 04 have given their side of the story on why Moussa Sylla’s Deadline Day transfer to New York City FC fell through.

Moussa Sylla was closing in on a move to MLS side New York City FC on Monday, but the transfer ultimately fell through.

Schalke 04 have now provided their version of events, claiming that the MLS club “attempted to reopen negotiations on a deal that had already been fully agreed.”

“We’re frustrated by the behaviour of New York City FC,” said Frank Baumann on behalf of the Schalke 04 board. 

“The contracts weren’t just negotiated, they had already been signed. Now to claim he failed the medical in order to trigger a clause in the contract doesn’t add up – because Moussa is healthy and fully fit.

“We see nothing in the findings that would justify classifying the medical as failed. We will strongly challenge that claim, also to protect Moussa. He can quite easily continue as a professional footballer for another decade.

“Instead of a permanent transfer, they started talking about a loan with options on Sunday (1/2). That is not acceptable to us.”

Sylla will now return to training with the 2. Bundesliga side ahead of Saturday’s home game against Dynamo Dresden.