Only two Arsenal players turned down the idea of having their salary slashed by 12.5 per cent for a year as a result of the coronavirus-enforced difficult financial situation, David Ornstein reveals.
Here's what he tweeted on the matter: "Arsenal squad told 25 of 27 agreed cuts up to 12.5% for 1 year. No min/max needed (#AFC wanted all for harmony/savings or at least majority) so will proceed to with whoever accepted."
The ball was set in motion when the club proposed wage cuts of 12.5 per cent on April 12, only for the majority of the squad (14 vs 13) to oppose the idea. The players expressed not unreasonable concerns that year-long very specific cuts could be aimed at helping owner Stan Kroenke and not staff across the club.
Arsenal's hierarchy asked Mikel Arteta to step in (which he did on April 16) and the Spaniard looks to have persuaded his players to go along with the cuts. The Mirror claim a system of paybacks and bonuses was built in.
This system will see the players get their money back should they qualify for the Champions League next season with a bonus thrown on top. Should the Gunners make Europa League, they will be able to claim 7.5 per cent back, meaning the club will only withhold 5% from the initial salary.
Who do you think the two players to reject pay cuts are?
