Birkirkara FC at loggerheads with Malta FA over Paul Mbong’s selection

Birkirkara FC expressed their disappointment at the Malta FA’s decision to call up their forward Paul Mbong for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Lithuania and the Netherlands, despite the fact that the player was suspended by the Premier League club.

Last month, Mbong was suspended by Birkirkara FC for improper conduct and was not used for the semi-final and final of the FA Trophy.

The player has appealed against the club’s decision and his complaint is set to be heard in front of the MFA Complaints’ Board.

On Tuesday morning, national coach Emilio De Leo included Mbong in his final squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, a decision that did not go down well with Birkirkara who said that the governing body failed to lead by example.

“The club makes reference to the latest call ups of the Men’s A National Team squad list,” Birkirkara FC said in a statement.

“Whilst we would have wanted to keep internal matters private and have not commented on various media speculation, the line has now been crossed.

“Clubs are asked to lead by example by the association in relation to on and off the field matters. It is with deep regret that the Malta Football Association has chosen to blatantly ignore information and facts in relation to one of the club’s current players that resulted in admission of gross misconduct.

“There are time when irrelevant of procedures those in power should lead by example, a fact unfortunately lost on those tasked with taking decisions. National team players who represent the country should lead by example.”

The Malta FA responded to Birkirkara statement and said that they will refrain from making further comments on the subject which could prejudice the outcome of the matter.

“The Malta FA was notified by Birkirkara Football Club that they had taken disciplinary action against a senior team player who subsequently filed an appeal against the decision taken by the club’s Disciplinary Board,” Birkirkara FC said.

“Birkirkara Football Club were notified about the appeal lodged by the player on 30 May, 2025.

“Accordingly, as the club has rightly noted in their statement, the case remains sub judice. Proceedings are still ongoing, and any comments or statements that could potentially prejudice the outcome are to be avoided

“In full respect of the regulatory and judicial processes, the Malta FA will adhere to this principle and urges all involved parties to do the same.”