People of the Union puts the spotlight on individuals across FIFPRO’s member associations who are dedicated to improving the wellbeing of professional footballers.
Kamoliddin Murzoev, president of the Uzbekistan Footballers’ Union, talks about learning from other player associations and the importance of solidarity in the union movement.
FIFPRO: Tell us about yourself: what is your current role and what is your background?
Kamoliddin Murzoev: I am a former professional footballer. During my career, I had the opportunity to play for several clubs in Uzbekistan, as well as abroad — in Kazakhstan and Ukraine. I also had the honour of representing the national team of Uzbekistan in several matches, which was a significant milestone in my sporting life. Even when I was still an active player, I became interested in the protection of player rights and began to explore the player union movement. Since 2017, I have been working with the Uzbekistan Footballers’ Union, and today I have the privilege of serving as its president.
What issue affecting player welfare are you most passionate about?
I am deeply concerned about the lack of protection for footballers both during their professional careers and, even more so, after their careers have ended. During their active years, players often face situations where clubs fail to fulfill contractual obligations — such as delaying payments, breaching agreements, or failing to provide adequate support. This not only affects their financial stability but also hinders their professional development, lowers motivation, and undermines their confidence in the future.
Even more troubling is the uncertainty many players face once their careers are over, or during periods when they are without a contract. In most cases, they simply don’t know what to do next, where to turn for help, or how to apply their skills beyond the football field. The absence of a structured support system during these critical times leaves players vulnerable and contributes to a deep sense of uncertainty.
At the Uzbekistan Footballers' Union, we do our best to address these challenges by offering legal assistance, career transition guidance, and educational programs. However, solving these issues in a sustainable way requires a comprehensive approach — involving clubs, leagues, the national federation, and international partners.
Can you share one of your proudest moments or achievements working as a union representative?
One of the most memorable and emotionally significant moments in the history of our union was our first legal victory — the case of Bahodir Pardayev, who was playing in South Korea at the time. It was our first experience handling an international legal dispute on behalf of a player, and it gave us the confidence to believe that we could truly make a difference in protecting footballers’ rights. Thanks to close collaboration with our South Korean colleagues, we were able to achieve justice and successfully defend Bahodir’s rights. That moment was a turning point for us — it made us realise just how important our work is, and how rewarding it is to stand up for players.
One of the largest and most complex cases we handled lasted almost four years. It involved a well-known club that essentially ceased to exist in its original form after being sold to a new owner, leaving more than 40 players and staff without contracts or the money they were owed. The case escalated to the level of the Cabinet of Ministers, and it became a true fight for justice. In the end, we were proud to see that all players received what they were due — and that, without a doubt, is one of the greatest achievements of our team.
If you could change something in football, what would it be?
To be honest, if I had the power to change something, I would probably choose not to change anything at all. In my view, football has already undergone too many changes in recent years — and unfortunately, not all of them have been beneficial to the game itself.
Is there anyone in the union world or in sports in general who inspires you?
I’m inspired by many people and organisations. But one I’d like to highlight is PFA Australia. I truly admire the way they operate — with an efficient structure, a high level of organisation, strategic development, and a well-earned reputation both nationally and internationally.
Our goal is to build a strong and effective union in Uzbekistan — one that can truly protect the interests of footballers at the highest level. And the experience of our colleagues around the world plays an important role in helping us achieve that.
What is your favourite football memory to date?
Throughout my career, there were many bright and memorable moments — beautiful goals, important matches, and emotional victories. But the one that stands out the most for me is winning the Uzbekistan Cup in 2018 with FC AGMK.
It wasn’t just another trophy. It marked the end of my professional playing career, and we achieved it under circumstances where very few people believed in us. The team was fighting to stay in the league, and we didn’t have a star-studded line-up. In fact, around 80 percent of the players in the squad had never won a trophy in their lives. We stepped onto the pitch not as favourites, but as a united team — and we won.
Who is your favourite footballer ever and why?
It’s very difficult to choose just one. Since childhood, I’ve always admired Ronaldo — the Brazilian "Fenômeno". His playing style, speed, technique, and incredible goalscoring instinct were simply mesmerising. He was unique, and I still believe that at his peak, he was nearly unstoppable.
FIFPRO is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025. What does being part of a global union mean to you?
For us, as a young player union, being a member of FIFPRO is not only a form of recognition but also an opportunity to learn from the best, grow professionally, and bring real value to the footballers we represent. It’s inspiring to see unions from different countries exchanging experiences, working together toward common goals, and addressing important issues side by side.
FIFPRO is more than just a structure — it’s a driving force that helps improve the lives and working conditions of thousands of footballers around the world. And we are proud to contribute to this collective mission, representing Uzbekistan. Together, we are stronger — and it’s through this unity that we can shape the future of football, where the voices and interests of players are truly heard and protected.
Could you give one example of the value that FIFPRO has for your organisation?
Simply being a member of FIFPRO is already an immense value for us. But if I were to highlight one specific example, it would undoubtedly be the legal support and expertise they provide. Our collaboration with FIFPRO has significantly strengthened our legal foundation and taught us how to defend the rights of players more effectively.
I would especially like to express our deep gratitude to Roy Vermeer, whose knowledge and mentorship have played a crucial role in our development. He has taught us so much, shared his experience generously, and always found time to support us — even in the most challenging situations. Thanks to the legal backing from FIFPRO, we have successfully defended the rights of a considerable number of players — both within Uzbekistan and internationally.
We often tell our players: “Behind you is not only our union — there's also an entire international network, including people you may never meet — like those in the Netherlands — who are working on your cases, helping us find solutions, and doing it with full commitment”. This level of solidarity and expertise is precisely the kind of value FIFPRO brings to our work.
And looking forward, what do you hope to see unions unite more on to shape the future of football for the players?
In my view, the key to true unity among unions lies in consistent, ongoing communication. It’s important that our collaboration goes beyond formal events such as General Assemblies or working group meetings. We should strive to engage with one another regularly — to learn more about each other’s internal structures, challenges, and the kinds of projects being implemented.
Since we are all part of a global network, our growth and progress are only possible through mutual support and cooperation. We need to help one another — by sharing ideas, best practices, and successful case studies. It’s especially important for well-established and experienced unions to support the newer and younger ones. I truly believe that emerging unions shouldn’t have to go through the same difficulties and mistakes that older unions once faced. Instead, they can benefit from proven strategies and move forward more confidently and sustainably.
I remember that FIFPRO once had a powerful slogan: “The strong support the weak.” That principle is still very relevant today. Support and solidarity within our movement are the foundation for building a future where the interests of players are genuinely prioritised.
