Cyprus Football Round-Up: Henning Berg Returns, Licensing Controversy Escalates, and Transfer Developments Across the League

Henning Berg Returns to Omonoia
Omonoia Nicosia have announced the return of Henning Berg as head coach on a two-year deal. The Norwegian tactician previously led the club from 2019 to 2022, guiding them to their first league title in a decade, a Super Cup victory, and historic group stage qualifications in both the Europa League and the Conference League. Berg was also instrumental in promoting youth players from the academy into the first team. Since his departure, he has managed Legia Warsaw—winning both the league and cup—and recently lifted the Cypriot Cup with AEK Larnaca. Omonoia welcomed back the “beloved” coach, declaring their intent to restore the club’s status as the “Queen of Cypriot football.”

Licensing Scandal: Ministry vs CFA
A storm is brewing in Cypriot football as contradictions emerge over club licensing and financial compliance. The Ministry of Finance informed the Cyprus Football Association (CFA) that five clubs have outstanding tax debts, while seven owe contributions to social insurance funds. This comes after the CFA had already confirmed to UEFA that all clubs had passed licensing criteria based on an earlier deadline.

Criticism has mounted from clubs including Anorthosis, APOEL, Apollon, and Ethnikos, who issued a joint statement condemning the Ministry’s delayed communication and alleged political interference. The clubs claim prior agreements were made with the Tax Commissioner and accuse the Ministry of failing to acknowledge those arrangements. They stress that over €2 million has already been paid and warn that if the issue persists, some clubs could face collapse. The situation remains fluid, with UEFA awaiting official confirmation before May 31.

Finance Minister Makis Keravnos responded on state radio, stating that clubs may re-enter repayment schemes if binding commitments are submitted to the Tax Commissioner. However, the controversy has ignited a broader debate about the state’s handling of football finances and the future viability of several top-tier clubs.

Anorthosis Confirm Gómez Appointment, Sergiou Deal Collapses
Anorthosis Famagusta officially confirmed Spanish coach Joaquín Gómez as their new head coach. Meanwhile, transfer negotiations between Anorthosis and Nea Salamina for right-back Konstantinos Sergiou have broken down. Despite attempts to structure a deal involving resale clauses and loan options, Nea Salamina insisted on an upfront fee of €130,000—an amount Anorthosis were unwilling to pay. Nea Salamina had also previously rejected bids from other major Cypriot clubs for the 24-year-old defender.

AEK Larnaca Begin Squad Rebuild
Following their cup success, AEK Larnaca have announced the departures of six players: academy product Ioakeim Toumpas, Bruno Gama, Fran Sol, Fanos Katelaris, and Marios Demetriou. Sol leaves after two seasons, having scored 21 goals in 74 appearances. Gama, a fan favourite, contributed 7 goals in 65 matches across three seasons. The club thanked the players for their contributions and wished them success in their careers.

Dvali’s Future Open, Aris Interest Confirmed
Lasha Odiladze, the agent of former APOEL defender Lasha Dvali, confirmed interest from European clubs and admitted talks had previously taken place with Aris Limassol. Although Dvali’s contract has expired, no final decision has been made. Aris had approached the player in January, and remain in the running alongside other suitors across Europe.

Jairo Set to Leave Pafos FC
A major exit is on the horizon at Pafos FC, with reports suggesting club captain Jairo will depart after nearly four seasons. Signed from Hajduk Split in 2021 for €500,000, the Brazilian striker scored 59 goals and provided 27 assists in 163 appearances. He captained the side to a Cup win last season and this year’s historic league title. Jairo is now expected to join Malaysian champions Johor Darul Ta’zim.