Italian side ASD Lucera Calcio has been left fuming after Ugandan-born forward Innocent Ronald Media made a surprise announcement confirming his departure from the club—while still on holiday in Uganda.
The 24-year-old striker, who previously featured for Arua Hill SC, took to social media to deliver a heartfelt farewell, thanking the Serie D club for shaping his growth on and off the pitch.
“Thank you, Lucera Calcio, for the unforgettable memories, invaluable lessons, and personal and professional growth. As I begin a new chapter, I carry deep gratitude for everyone who has been part of this experience. Lucera Calcio will always hold a special place in my heart,” Media wrote.
But while the message struck a gracious tone, Lucera Calcio didn’t take kindly to the way things unfolded behind the scenes.
In a blistering response, the club accused Media of blindsiding them—claiming he requested a short leave to visit Uganda during the summer break, with round-trip flights paid for by the club, only to turn around and register for another Ugandan team through an international transfer request.
“We are deeply disappointed and regret the unjustified abandonment of our sports project by Innocent Ronald Media,” read the club’s official statement.
Lucera Calcio says they were never formally notified about his intent to leave and that the move was done without any discussion, violating both protocol and professional conduct.
“The footballer, after asking for and receiving permission to return to Uganda—with full travel costs covered by the club—unilaterally chose not to return. He instead offered himself to another local club and processed a transfer without any prior communication or explanation,” the statement continued.
The Italian club also criticised the unnamed Ugandan team for failing to initiate any formal contact, calling it a “lack of institutional respect.”
Media has since been officially removed from Lucera Calcio’s squad for the upcoming season, with the club insisting he remains contractually bound to them until 2026.
This isn’t the first time the talented attacker has found himself in the middle of a transfer storm—his previous move from Arua Hill SC to Lucera was also clouded by disputes.
Reports indicate that he’s set to join NEC Football Club in Uganda.
