Negotiations between the English top clubs and their players are underway, but it seems that there is still a long way to go before an agreement is reached. There is one exception.
In the dispute over salaries in the Premier League, the players are apparently gaining the upper hand.
With one exception, no club from the world’s richest league has yet been able to persuade its kicking staff to give up their salaries.
Last week, Premier League officials had already proposed a 30% pay cut for all professionals, but the players’ union PFA had rejected this proposal.
Since then, numerous clubs have been in direct negotiations with their stars, but without success. According to the Daily Mail, talks have been going on for days with the two top clubs from Manchester, among others.
The exception mentioned is FC Southampton. There, 10 percent of the salary is now being waived – although this measure is apparently only temporary in nature.
The money saved is to flow in October. At least, according to the Saints, further measures such as short-time work at the club could be avoided thanks to the salary cuts.
Players set up relief fund
Why the superstars have not given up money so far? The PFA explained it this way: If there were significant cuts in salary, less tax would be paid. Around 200 million pounds could be lost to the state – and thus to the currently heavily used NHS healthcare system.
Former England international Wayne Rooney had recently complained that the players were being used as scapegoats.
The players have recently proved that they are willing to help by introducing a relief fund, in which Premier League players participate. With #PlayersTogether, the NHS in particular is supported.
A strong sign – but in the dispute with the clubs the fronts remain hardened.