Politics wants to tackle the social benefits that football clubs receive again. Simon Mignolet, representative of the players’ union, has many reservations about this.
Mignolet understands the discussion about social security contributions, but believes that there is too much talk about percentages and not enough about absolute amounts. He thinks higher taxes will drive away the top players, resulting in less money flowing to the state.
“There may be a better distribution in percentage terms, but in euros that amount will decrease. The better players will stay away and will no longer contribute. Without those players, Belgian clubs will perform less well in Europe, which in turn will generate less income and talents will be chased away,” he says HLN.
In addition, according to the goalkeeper, it is too often forgotten what they do deliver to the state. “Together with the clubs, we will contribute an additional 200 million euros after the tax reform in the next legislature, which are not decimal places.”
We provide guidance to young talents in the locker room
“I have been playing in Belgium for five years now. All the while I’ve been paying my taxes here. It’s a shame that this is never talked about. The same for Jan Vertonghen, who returned from Portugal, or Toby Alderweireld from Qatar.”
The (former) internationals also have another role. “We also play an important role in the training of young players – which is an important part of the regulations. That aspect is often forgotten.
“We provide guidance to young talents in the dressing room – just look at what Vertonghen does in the guidance of Zeno Debast, or Toby Alderweireld for Zeno Vandenbossche. I also try to play my role with the Club’s younger goalkeepers.”
“I know that many footballers earn a good living. But does Belgium benefit from playing football abroad and paying taxes there?
Tags: Mignolet hits hard criticism social benefits Belgium benefit Vertonghen Alderweireld playing Football news
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