Mtarfa FC say a prohibition on registering players prevented them from fulfilling their opening two league fixtures, insisting they had players willing to represent the club and had not abandoned their intention to compete.

In a statement dated 5 October, the club acknowledged the Malta FA Control, Discipline and Ethics Board’s decision to suspend them from the league and impose sanctions, but sought to explain the circumstances behind their failure to play.

Mtarfa were suspended after failing to attend their matches against Mellieħa on 19 September and Senglea Athletic on 27 September. The Board also ordered the club to forfeit its entitlement to the competition’s sponsorship money.

The committee said players were ready to join the team but could not be registered because of the prohibition imposed on the club.

“The Club had players ready to represent Mtarfa FC, but due to the prohibition imposed on the Club, these players could not be registered and therefore could not participate in competitive matches,” the statement said.

According to Mtarfa, the Malta FA was aware of the situation and the committee’s efforts to resolve outstanding obligations. The club said it had explained that lifting the prohibition would enable it to register players, fulfil fixtures and attract further sponsorship to help meet its remaining commitments.

The committee described a cycle in which its financial obligations prevented the prohibition from being lifted, while its inability to register players and compete made securing additional sponsorship more difficult.

Nevertheless, Mtarfa said support from sponsors and individuals had helped the club make substantial progress towards settling its obligations in recent days.

“The Club’s financial position has improved significantly within a very short period,” the committee said.

The statement did not specify the amounts settled or the obligations that remain outstanding.

Mtarfa also highlighted the absence of a permanent football ground, despite what the club described as an agreement concerning facilities announced in 2021.

The committee said this had created sporting, organisational and financial challenges over the years, while stressing that it was providing context rather than an excuse for its obligations.

The club expressed concern that its suspension had come at a time when progress was being made towards resolving its difficulties.

However, the committee said it did not intend to enter into a public confrontation with the Malta FA or any other party, with its immediate focus remaining on the club’s future.

Mtarfa thanked their players, sponsors, supporters and those who had offered assistance during the difficult period.

“Our priority remains to protect the future of Mtarfa FC and continue working towards a sustainable way forward,” the statement concluded.