Chinese Super League clubs are in financial disarray after splashing out on transfer fees for foreign players and their wages. Gate money and merchandise generate little revenue compared to the amounts spent.
Chinese Super League clubs are in financial disarray after splashing out on transfer fees for foreign players and their wages. Gate money and merchandise generate little revenue compared to the amounts spent.
Thirteen clubs are reported to be behind with payments on transfer fees, player wages and bonuses. They could be expelled from the competition, although penalising all of them would mean that there would be no league left. However, the authorities may decide to make an example of one or two clubs.
The Asian Football Confederation has said that if outstanding debts are not cleared by August 31st, clubs will be barred from playing in the Champions League next season.
FifPRO, the players’ organisation, is concened about the situation. There is no representative organisation for footballers in China. However, independent trade unions are not permitted in China, so it would be difficult to start one.