FIFA regulations have effectively ruled out a January exit for Super Eagles midfielder Christantus Uche, despite his struggle for playing time at Crystal Palace this season.

Uche, who impressed during his time at Getafe last campaign, has found opportunities limited under manager Oliver Glasner since completing his move to Selhurst Park in the summer. 

The midfielder has made just seven appearances across all competitions, totaling only 67 minutes, raising questions about his long-term future at the club. 

In the 2024/2025 campaign, Uche netted four goals and provided six assists in 38 league appearances in the La Liga.

His limited minutes in the Premier League have fueled speculation about his future, with reports suggesting interest from Bundesliga clubs looking to help him rediscover his best form.

However, according to the Athletic, Fifa two-club rule prohibit players from representing more than two clubs in a single season. 

The Fifa two-club rule states that although a player may be registered with up to three clubs in one season, they are only permitted to play official matches for a maximum of two of them.

Having already featured for Getafe in La Liga, where he recorded a goal and an assist in three matches, before joining Crystal Palace, Uche is ineligible to switch clubs again this campaign.

The restriction means the Nigerian international must remain at Palace until the end of the season, where he will hope to earn more minutes and regain form in a bid to boost his chances of making Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming AFCON tournament.

Uche could also be recalled from his loan spell during the January transfer window, provided the agreement that brought him to Selhurst Park includes a break clause.

Adeyemi Adewale