Despite Cruz Azul handling Martín Anselmi’s departure better than expected—thanks to Vicente Sánchez’s strong performance—the club still feels betrayed by his move to Porto in January without paying the $5 million release clause. Cruz Azul took the matter to FIFA, and their complaint has now been confirmed.
Cruz Azul Seeks $5 Million from Anselmi
The case has already reached the Court of Arbitration for Sport after Cruz Azul filed a complaint weeks ago. Now, two months after Anselmi’s unexpected exit to Porto, FIFA has accepted the case, having reviewed the club’s submitted documents.
Cruz Azul never blocked Anselmi’s move to Europe to coach Porto—a club set to participate in the 2025 Club World Cup. However, they insist on their right to claim the $5 million stipulated in his contract, which remains unpaid. A resolution on the matter is expected soon.
Anselmi’s Rocky Start at Porto
This legal battle adds to Anselmi’s challenges at Porto, where he has struggled to establish his project despite promising ideas. His team was recently eliminated by Roma in the Europa League playoffs and sits third in the Primeira Liga, trailing Sporting CP by nine points.
Porto’s inconsistency has been a major issue, as Anselmi has yet to secure back-to-back wins in his first 10 matches. However, he has a chance to change that this weekend when Porto visits Estoril, following a victory against AVS before the FIFA break.
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