Thursday, September 14, 2023

Spain women's league players call off strike after pay deal

Barcelona (AFP) – Footballers from Spain's women's top flight, Liga F, have called off a strike which postponed the first week of fixtures after an agreement over wages was reached, unions and the league said Thursday.

Spain's victory in the World Cup has been followed by controversy over the football federation's leaders and money, as players in the country's women's league went on a pay strike 
© Izhar KHAN / AFP

"Liga F and the unions have reached an agreement regarding the minimum wage that allows the strike to be called off," said Liga F in a statement.

Five unions, including AFE and Futpro, called a strike covering the first two rounds of fixtures last week.

"The deal is in regard to the minimum wage, the main cause of the strike -- accepted by the players as an act of responsibility to the fans of the sport," said the unions in a statement.

Liga F has agreed to raise the minimum wage from 16,000 euros ($17,000) a year to 21,000 euros ($22,500) in the current season, rising to 23,500 euros ($25,500) by the 2025-26 campaign.

Players were asking for a minimum wage starting at 23,000 euros from this season onwards.

However despite the strike being called off, the unions said there were various other issues on which agreements have not been reached after a year of negotiations.

"This step is the beginning and only a part of the agreement -- now it is time to work to move forward on important points such as maternity, harassment protocol (and other aspects)," the unions added.

Matches will now take place this weekend after the games on September 8-10 were not played.

Last season a refereeing strike disrupted the first week of Liga F matches.

Eventually, the league agreed to pay referees higher match fees, while the Spanish government said they would contribute to a refereeing retirement fund.

Spanish women's football has been in the spotlight after La Roja won the World Cup in August, but the victory was tainted by an incident involving former federation president Luis Rubiales at the medal ceremony after the game.

Rubiales, 46, sparked worldwide outrage when he forcibly kissed Spain midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips.

The chief has since resigned and is set to appear in court on Friday after a Spanish judge opened an investigation into the incident.

Currently, 81 Spain players are striking against the women's national team, until the leadership of the federation changes. Rubiales has resigned and controversial women's coach Jorge Vilda was sacked.


Issued on: 14/09/2023
© 2023 AFP

Man Utd sign Women's World Cup winner Guerrero


London (AFP) – Manchester United announced the signing of Spanish World Cup winner Irene Guerrero from Atletico Madrid on Thursday as the Red Devils target a first-ever Women's Super League title.
Spain midfielder Irene Guerrero has joined Manchester United 
© Saeed KHAN / AFP/File

Issued on: 14/09/2023 - 

The 26-year-old midfielder is United's sixth signing since they finished second in the WSL and lost the FA Cup final to Chelsea last season.

Guerrero was a member of the Spain squad that beat England 1-0 in the World Cup final in Sydney last month.

"I feel very happy and very privileged to be here," Guerrero said.

"I am very proud to be part of the Manchester United family and look forward to achieving all our goals together."

United boss Marc Skinner said: "Irene is a World Cup winner whose quality is an excellent addition to our team.

"The experience she brings, both domestically and internationally, will be key as we pursue success across the multiple competitions, we face this season."

Skinner has overhauled his squad, bringing in the World Cup's top scorer, Japan's Hinata Miyazawa, Gemma Evans, Geyse, Emma Watson and Evie Rabjohn.

But United lost England striker Alessia Russo to rivals Arsenal on a free transfer and face a battle to hold on to star goalkeeper Mary Earps.

One of the heros of the Lionesses run to the World Cup final, Earps won the Golden Glove for being the best 'keeper at the tournament.

Arsenal have also been linked with Earps, who has one year left on her contract at United.

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