FC Midtjylland admitted that a 13-year-old Norwegian boy took part in training activities during an earlier visit to the club in Denmark, in breach of international regulations. FIFA rules state that players may only begin trial training at clubs outside their home country during the season in which they turn 15.
The visit and the breach
Earlier, the 13-year-old Norwegian boy travelled to Denmark to train with FC Midtjylland. The visit took place one season too early to comply with the rules.
FC Midtjylland said: "However, we should have been more attentive to the regulations that apply when school visits also include sporting activities under our auspices."
School visit at Guldminen
FC Midtjylland said the player's family requested a visit to "Guldminen" to gain insight into the school's educational offerings and daily life. At "Guldminen", sports are an integrated part of the school day, and FC Midtjylland is responsible for that aspect.
FC Midtjylland said the young Norwegian participated in training activities organised by the club as a result of the visit.
How the stay became public
Lovenstad FK social media posts shared details about Omar Ouerghemi's stay in Ikast.
Club response and Danish rules
FC Midtjylland said: "We accept responsibility for this, and we are therefore reviewing our procedures to ensure that similar visits are handled correctly in the future."
Last year, the Danish Football Association introduced new sanctions in an effort to curb the poaching of young talent in Danish youth football. DBU rules state that football clubs are not allowed to poach players before the transition to the Under 13 level.