Dutch coach Rene Hiddink has rejected attempts by Hearts of Oak to reopen talks following FIFA’s order directing the Ghanaian giants to pay him $150,000 in compensation for the unlawful termination of his contract.
Hiddink joined the Phobians in 2023 on a three-year deal but parted ways with the club just eight months later.
Hearts of Oak terminated his contract without settling the outstanding balance, prompting the Dutchman to petition FIFA.
The world governing body ruled in his favour, instructing Hearts to pay the amount while also imposing a transfer ban on the club.
Hiddink’s lawyer, David Winnie, confirmed that the Hearts leadership had reached out to his client but revealed that the former coach declined any further engagement.
“Togbe Afede and the head of finance at Hearts of Oak contacted my client, Rene Hiddink, yesterday to try and reach some form of settlement agreement in this matter following FIFA’s decision to award Rene the payment of the rest of his contract. However, Rene declined this,” Winnie told Akoma FM.
He explained that Hiddink had previously sought an amicable settlement almost a year ago, but the club failed to respond.
“Now that FIFA has delivered its decision, Rene is no longer interested in any settlement that delays the process. The only thing Rene is interested in now is being paid the remaining sum on his contract as ordered by FIFA,” Winnie added.
Meanwhile, Hearts of Oak are stepping up preparations for the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season, which kicks off on September 12 against Hohoe United.
The Phobians will also target the Democracy Cup after finishing second in the recent GHALCA Top 4 tournament.