Egyptian giants Al Ahly have announced that no player will take a pay cut despite the economic impact of COVID-19.
Like in many countries, football in the North African country has been suspended in a bid to contain the virus and prevent its spread.
Some Premier League clubs in Egypt have, therefore, moved to slash the salaries of their players and other staff.
Players of Arab Contractors and Ittihad of Alexandria have been forced to take pay cuts, but Al Ahly insists it will continue to pay its players in full despite the economic challenges caused by the pandemic.
Today marks 20 years since @AlAhly was crowned team of the century 👑
— CAF (@CAF_Online) May 22, 2020
Happy Anniversary 🥳 pic.twitter.com/kgm5TqNKV0
A statement on the club’s website said the Board is ready to shoulder the pressure for a couple of months more.
“The board reviewed the club’s resources in light of the current suspension and the club’s large monthly commitments and decided the following: Pay the entire salaries of employees and workers at the club so they can fulfill their needs and commitments in these hard circumstances, especially with the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan,” the statement said.
“Pay the entire wages of players and all staff members in all sports for the next four months starting from 1 April to 1 July.”
Al Ahly are one of the most financially stable clubs in Africa, having signed a four-year record sponsorship deal worth $32 million with Presentation in 2018.
1️⃣9️⃣ years ago our club was awarded the title of
— Al Ahly SC 🇬🇧 (@AlAhlyEnglish) May 21, 2020
👑Africa’s club of the century👑
by @CAF_Online
and today we celebrate this great memory that only happen once every 1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ years… See you next century🥳#ClubOfTheCentury☝️ pic.twitter.com/7kpeow8Dh8
The club also boasts the biggest broadcasting deal among Egyptian clubs, estimated to be worth around $25 million.
