Visa Issues Sideline Congolese Winger for a Year, Blocking Czech Club Debut

The Career of Beni Makouana

According to Главком: Congolese footballer Beni Makouana, who is under contract with Ukrainian club Polissya Zhytomyr, has seen his career stall due to visa problems that prevented his planned debut for Czech side Jablonec. As a result, the player has lost a full year of competitive action and is currently in the Republic of Congo. This situation highlights the often-overlooked administrative hurdles players face when moving between leagues.

The 23-year-old winger secured a loan move to Czech club Jablonec in the autumn of 2025. This loan agreement is set to run until the end of June 2026 and includes an option for Jablonec to make the transfer permanent. Makouana's full contract with Polissya is valid until the summer of 2028, and his market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be between €300,000 and €500,000.

Makouana initially joined Polissya from French club Montpellier in the summer of 2023. During his time there, he made 27 appearances, scoring 4 goals and providing 3 assists. In March 2025, he was loaned to Ukrainian club LNZ Cherkasy, where he played 6 matches and scored 1 goal. However, he left LNZ in June 2025, and his career path has since been left uncertain due to the ongoing visa complications.

Problems and Prospects

Consequently, Beni Makouana, a player with demonstrated potential and experience in both Ukrainian and foreign football, is currently unable to pursue his ambitions in the Czech league because of these administrative barriers. His next steps remain unclear while he stays in the Republic of Congo.

Makouana's case underscores the significant challenges footballers can encounter when transferring to European leagues, particularly regarding work permit and visa acquisition. The specific reasons for such delays can vary, but they profoundly impact an athlete's career by limiting opportunities for professional development and match fitness.

This extended lack of playing time could adversely affect his physical condition and future transfer prospects, thereby jeopardizing his potential at the international level.