Unfortunately, we are being notified with cases in which intimidating tactics are being used to induce players to accept premature termination of contracts.

Recently we have a case of a full-time player who has not been paid since January. A club representative told him that unless he agrees to sign a termination of contract agreement, as well as accepting approximately half the amount owed to him till end of April, he will be kicked out of the apartment with his family. An apartment he is entitled to as per contract. The player who has not had a paycheck in over two months refused, and was kicked out of the apartment on the 3rd of April, in the middle of a pandemic. At this point, MFPA intervened and assisted the player and his family by covering the cost of accommodation until the end of April.

We understand the situation is difficult for everyone and this is why we are in continuous contact with players, clubs and federation to see how we can alleviate the burden. However, when the issue concerns players, whose main income comes from football, their salary and accommodation must continue to be covered. For no other reason than to allow him to survive. We are certainly not going to accept the use of such shameful methods by which players are thrown out on the streets. With the government scheme, the club should be entitled to receive 800 Euro per month which would have been a substantial part of this particular player’s salary.

We appeal to any players who may find themselves in similar circumstances to come forward and contact us. Contracts must be respected, unless an alternative agreement accepted by both parties is reached. In this particular case we will open legal proceedings in front of FIFA.