KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Football League (MFL) has urged domestic league footballers to use the proper channels and be bold in conveying their problems if they have issues with their salaries.
This response comes after Kuala Lumpur City FC captain Paulo Josue alleged that he has not received his salary for seven months and is currently surviving on his savings.
According to transfermarkt.com, the 35-year-old Brazilian attacking midfielder has a current market value of RM1.39 million and earns between RM105,000 and RM110,000 per month.
Josue’s situation has also drawn the attention of former national footballers Safee Sali and Zaquan Adha Abdul Radzak, who have openly declared their readiness to assist M-League footballers who feel compelled to remain silent.
An MFL spokesperson told Scoop that the governing body is always prepared to listen to footballers’ issues, working closely with the Professional Footballers’ Association of Malaysia (PFAM).
“If any footballer has overdue payments, there are multiple avenues available to address these issues promptly. Many players and coaches have approached the MFL in the past, and we have successfully intervened and resolved such matters, which were not publicised.
“By utilising the correct channels and avenues, we can prevent salary issues from lingering for months. Instead of waiting, footballers should promptly report issues to the appropriate authorities or contact us directly.
“PFAM has done commendable work, organising meetings between players and clubs over the years. Josue’s situation isn’t necessarily wrong; perhaps he intended to give the club more time and avoid dramatic measures.
“It’s possible that Josue turned to social media because he wasn’t receiving the response he expected. Players should be aware of the proper avenues, and why they didn’t go through PFAM is a question for others to answer.
“Footballers should approach us directly, as we are the official body responsible for taking action. Addressing issues promptly will prevent them from escalating,” the MFL spokesperson said.
KL City patron and Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil previously told Scoop that despite his efforts to help the club since June last year through his discussions with Kuala Lumpur FA general secretary Nokman Mustaffa, the salary issues remain unresolved.
For the record, Josue joined the City Boys in 2017 and has scored 45 goals in 125 appearances for the capital club.
KL City FC currently rank fifth in the Super League with four points from three matches. – July 12, 2024
