Worried players call for ‘clear vision’ on ways the embattled A-League can prosper

The future of the A-League is a concern for players who are demanding feedback about ways the competition can move forward.

Concerned players have demanded the financially embattled Australian Professional Leagues provide a “clear vision” about the future of the A-League men’s and women’s competitions.

Clubs suffered a huge blow last week when the APL announced that annual distributions would total just $530,000, representing a cut of close to 75 per cent.

Despite the huge reduction, the men’s A-League salary cup floor has remained at $2.25m, which will severely stretch the resources of a host of clubs and has already contributed to the departures of several high-profile players.

While the collective bargaining agreement has two more seasons to run, Professional Footballers Australia co-chief executive Kathryn Gill was confident clubs could “operate within the agreed framework”, which she said provided “flexibility”.

“Under current settings, the on-field product is as strong as ever,” Gill claimed.

“Clubs are realising greater transfer value than before while achieving success in Asia.

“Both leagues are producing new national team players, and clubs are making significant investments in infrastructure and youth programs. “

PFA co-chief executive Kathryn Gill (right), pictured with former PFA boss John Didulica, wants ‘clear vision’ about the A-League’s future. Picture: AAP Image/James Gourley

However, Gill acknowledged the APL’s financial woes.

“While the fundamentals are strong, what’s clear is that the leagues have a revenue problem,” she said.

“The players’ expectations are that the APL provides a clear vision that allows both leagues to achieve their full potential.”

It’s understood the players’ main concern hs been the “survival” narrative coming out of APL headquarters, rather than talk of prosperity.

It’s understood APL officials have met with the PFA this week to discuss the path going forward for the men’s and women’s A-League competitions.

APL chairman Stephen Conroy said: “We have our eye firmly on the future. Our core metrics are positive, with three years of growth, following seven years of consecutive decline, which will position the league for revenue growth at the next rights cycle.”

However, the APL has suffered another blow with the resignation of the A-League’s head of compliance, Alex Luck.

Originally published as Worried players call for ‘clear vision’ on ways the embattled A-League can prosper