Former Arsenal star and Ajax director of football Marc Overmars has faced a global suspension by FIFA, stemming from allegations of inappropriate conduct.

Marc Overmars, renowned for his time at Arsenal where he contributed significantly to the club’s success, including winning the Double, has been facing repercussions for his actions at Ajax.

He was initially suspended for two years, with one year suspended, by an independent Dutch sports tribunal in November 2023, for sending inappropriate messages to several female colleagues during his tenure as Ajax’s director of football.

Overmars, who made over 140 appearances for Arsenal, left Ajax in February 2022 amid these allegations. He admitted his mistake, saying, “I am ashamed. Certainly for someone in my position this behaviour is unacceptable. I now see that but it is too late. I see no other option but to leave Ajax.”

Following his departure from Ajax, Overmars joined Belgian side Royal Antwerp as technical director. There, under Mark van Bommel’s management, he played a role in the club’s historical success, including signing key players like Gyrano Kerk, Toby Alderweireld, and Vincent Janssen, contributing to Antwerp’s first League title.

However, his past actions at Ajax caught up with him.

The Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) reported Overmars’ suspension to FIFA, leading to a global extension of his ban.

“Fifa can confirm that following a request by the Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB), the Fifa Disciplinary Committee has decided to extend the sanction imposed by KNVB on Mr Marc Overmars to have worldwide effect,” a FIFA statement read.

This decision by FIFA, stemming from findings by the Sports Jurisprudence Institute (ISR) in November, asserts that Overmars violated Sexual Harassment regulations.

The ISR’s ruling, initially confined to the KNVB’s jurisdiction, allowed Overmars to continue his work in Belgium. However, with FIFA’s recent action, Overmars’ role at Royal Antwerp is now at risk.

This global suspension marks a significant fall from grace for Overmars, who, during his playing career, also starred for Ajax and Barcelona before moving into football management.

His successful career at Arsenal remains a highlight, but his current situation casts a dark shadow over his legacy.