Players may only be registered during one of the two annual registration
periods fi xed by the relevant association. As an exception to this rule, a
professional whose contract has expired prior to the end of a registration
period may be registered outside that registration period. Associations are
authorised to register such professionals provided due consideration is given to
the sporting integrity of the relevant competition. Where a contract has been
terminated with just cause, FIFA may take provisional measures in order to
avoid abuse, subject to article 22.