Gallants in fresh legal storm as Koutroulis files non-payment claim

The dispute arises from an alleged breach of contract before Koutroulis had even commenced his duties. According to his legal representative, the club failed to meet key contractual obligations, prompting formal action through the Premier Soccer League’s Dispute Resolution Chamber [DRC]. 

“We gave the club 10 days to rectify the breach, and they failed, refused, and/or neglected to do so. The chairman [Abram Sello] then contacted Peter to renegotiate the terms, which we declined. We subsequently terminated the agreement for breach by accepting their repudiation,” Kabelo Mashigo explained. 

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Gallants have since defended their position, claiming Koutroulis did not report for duty, although his legal team has argued the contrary – their main reasoning being that the club had not fulfilled essential conditions required for him to take up the role.

“How can he report for work in Bloemfontein without a relocation fee being paid and accommodation provided, as agreed? That was not forthcoming. We will now await a hearing date from the league and proceed accordingly,” Mashigo added. 

The off-field turmoil adds to a difficult period for Gallants with the club recently sacking coach Alexandre Lafitte under controversial circumstances linked to alleged insubordination during his spell. 

His replacement, Jamil Benouahi, the Moroccan tactician also hired a month ago, is now also believed to be in talks over a potential separation. 

Benouahi has only overseen one match, a 3-0 defeat away to Magesi in the Betway Premiership and has since been absent from training sessions and matchday involvement despite his name appearing on the team sheet in two subsequent fixtures.

The Koutroulis matter is the latest in a string of disputes involving Gallants as the club battles instability both on and off the pitch while fighting to retain its topflight status.