The Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) has barred the country’s professional footballers from playing social football during the festive period.
PLE has warned against the players’ involvement in social football following the break from December 15, 2024 to January 3 2025 to pave the way for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
“As we enjoy this break, we remind all Premier League players that while we acknowledge the positive impact of football in our communities, they are prohibited from participating in any social games during this period."
PLE has since encouraged the players to find alternative ways of keeping fit during the two-week break.
“However, we encourage them to engage in other forms of fitness and wellness activities to maintain their health and readiness for the second half of the season,” the statement adds.
Reports of professionals engaging in social football are common in Africa. Years ago, images emerged on social media of Sadio Mané and André Onana playing social football on clay grounds in Senegal and Cameroon.
Meanwhile, the league has announced that the registration window for the second round will open on January 8, 2024.
“The registration window for the new season will open on 8th January 2025 and close on Monday, 3rd February 2025. All clubs and relevant stakeholders are encouraged to make the necessary preparations ahead of these dates,” the statement reads.
The PLE went to break last week with Royal Leopards leading the 14-member MTN Premier League on 25 points from 11 games at par with second-placed Green Mamba. Madlenya FC anchor the table on two points.
Comments