Serie A players agree to automatic 25 per cent pay cut for relegation

Serie A players have agreed to cut their salaries by 25 per cent if their team is relegated to Serie B, as part of a collective bargaining deal struck by the Players’ Association.

It is hoped that this will help clubs to smooth the transition from the top flight to the second division, which can be devastating for finances.

Lega Serie A President Ezio Simonelli declared this was an historic agreement that would help everyone work towards “a football system that is increasingly solid, equal and sustainable.”

Serie A players show solidarity with clubs

The contract means that players will automatically see their wages cut by 25 per cent in case of relegation from A to Serie B.

Other methods of helping clubs to bridge the difference in revenue from the top flight is a parachute payment from the current Serie A sides to those who drop down.

Much of the revenue from being in Serie A comes from television pay per view rights.

These parachute payments can go from €10m to €25m, depending on how long they have been in the top flight before relegation.