July 28 – The world players’ union FIFPro wants to create a member association in China amid concerns about overdue payments.
The Asian Football Confederation has warned clubs across the continent to settle debts to players by August 31 or risk competition bans and the Chinese FA followed this up with letters to all but three of the country’s 16 top-flight clubs plus a raft of lower-league clubs.
Ten of the top-flight clubs have already stated that they are clear of any debts but FIFPro is keen to protect players in the country.
“Media reports this week revealed several Chinese Super League clubs are falling behind on payments, and FIFPro wishes to ensure that affected players have somewhere to turn to for help,” FIFPro said in a statement.
A 2015 study of the situation in Asia involving 1,000 players in nine countries showed that a quarter had experienced being paid late.
“Players in China do not have the benefit of a local players’ association to protect their interests,” FIFPro added. “In time, the establishment of an association which protects the players and ensures their voices are represented in administering the sport would be beneficial to further enhance China’s plan to become a global football powerhouse.”
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