A decisive arbitration hearing will take place on Saturday at 13:00 at the ASA Board Room, in what could be a key moment in the ongoing dispute involving national team player Jake Muscat, San Ġiljan ASC and Neptunes WPSC.
The session follows a formal request submitted by Muscat’s legal representatives, together with San Ġiljan ASC. Following Rule 35(h), the ASA executive has appointed a two-person arbitration panel to oversee proceedings. The outcome could prove critical in determining the player’s future as tensions between the parties remain unresolved.
According to the Facebook page Swim Up, Neptunes informed Muscat several weeks ago that he no longer features in the club’s plans under head coach Milan Ćirić. The decision was reportedly based on multiple alleged breaches of contract. The club is understood to have encouraged Muscat to explore opportunities with other teams.
Talks had progressed with Sirens ASC, with Neptunes reportedly reaching an agreement in principle and a verbal understanding also in place with the player. However, the move was never finalised as Muscat is believed to favour a transfer to San Ġiljan ASC.
San Ġiljan did submit an offer to Neptunes for the player’s transfer, but according to what was reported by Swim Up, the bid was insulting. This perception led to an immediate collapse in negotiations and brought the situation to a standstill.
With Saturday’s hearing now confirmed, the case has reached a formal and possibly decisive stage. The arbitration board will hear arguments from all sides and could either open the door to a resolution or deepen the current impasse.
As one of the most high-profile transfer sagas in recent Maltese water polo history, the hearing is expected to attract significant interest across the sport. For Jake Muscat and the clubs involved, the coming hours may determine how this long-running chapter finally concludes.
