AshantiGold players, coaches accept 20% pay cut to support coronavirus fight

As the coronavirus pandemic sweeps the globe, pressure is mounting on the more privileged pockets of society, including professional footballers, to contribute some of their earnings towards the desperate efforts to stop the spread.

In view of that, football administrators in Ghana are still in talks with players on pay cuts.

First, to accept the new directives is players of Ghana Premier League giant, Ashanti Gold SC, who have accepted a 20% pay cut.

This decision taken by the players and technical team is to support the club as its finances have been severely affected due to the suspension of the on-going league season.

According to Ashgold Assistant Head Coach, Thomas Duah, taking a pay cut will help the club to endure the financial challenges during the period

“We all know the situation at hand because of this COVID-19, the league is suspended and there’s no football resulting in this pay-cut issue. We are unaware of when this disease is ending making way for the return of football,” he told Kumasi FM.

“Generally, it is something that cannot be forced on the players. If the management of the clubs are able to conclude mutually, that’s fine but with Ashantigold players and technical team, we have accepted a 20% pay cut. We have to be lenient and help the club president in this difficult time.

He added, “I have spoken to the leadership of the playing body and they have accepted it. It is something that is not normal, players play at least eight matches in a month at times but salaries are not increased. We are only considering them in these difficult times.”