Two Ghanaian footballers deported from Cyprus over expired residency

Two 22-year-old brothers from Ghana, identified as Senior and Junior Tokou, were deported from Cyprus in early November 2026 after living in the country for nearly three years without valid residence permits. The brothers, who had previously played for Othellos Athienou and Iraklis Gerolakkou and were recently with Xylofagou FC, were arrested by police during a training session several weeks prior to their removal. Despite their irregular status, they had signed new contracts with a local football club. Their arrest followed a period where they remained on the island despite the expiration of their required documentation.

The case has prompted action from the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection in coordination with the police. This incident highlights ongoing structural issues regarding the employment of foreign athletes in Cyprus. On October 7, 2026, Deputy Minister Nikolas A. Ioannides met with representatives from major sports federations, including the CFA, KOA, and CBF, to address the registration of third-country national athletes. Consequently, the Ministry has issued a directive requiring clubs to regularize the status of their foreign players by December 31, 2026, to prevent future exploitation and legal violations.