PFF says United Clark 'must sort out its situation' before rejoining PFL

PFF secretary-general Ed Gastanes said that United Clark must settle its legal battle first before thinking about a PFL return. PFL (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—The Philippine Football Federation, which currently operates the PFL, has accepted United Clark's decision to beg off from joining the second half of the league's season.

[Related Story: United Clark begs off from joining 2nd half of PFL season]

PFF president Nonong Araneta said on Thursday that he hopes that the club will swiftly settle the score with Singaporean investment group Riau Capital Live over unpaid dues.

"We understand the situation affecting United City FC that forced them to withdraw from the league. We hope that the club and its management are able to bounce back from this predicament," Araneta said.

However, while PFF secretary-general Ed Gastanes understands that the club intends to return to the PFL next season, he said that the club must "sort out its situation" before thinking about rejoining.

"While the club has reiterated its desire to compete in future seasons, it must sort out its situation first before making its return to league action," said Gastanes, a practicing lawyer.

"The case of UCFC is part of the realities on the ground, which must be addressed. We commend UCFC for the high standards they have set earlier on, but we must also consider the economics surrounding football as a business," added PFL commissioner Coco Torre.

In a statement, the league said that it "will deliberate on the status of United City FC with regards to the league matches affected following the club's withdrawal."

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