Hapoel Be'er Sheva Players Clash With Management Over Bonuses

Tensions are high between the players and management of Hapoel Be'er Sheva Football Club over bonus payments, according to former player Maor Kandil. The dispute centers on differing opinions regarding bonuses for participation in European competitions.

Kandil revealed on the "5 Ba'avir" sports program that captain Miguel Vítor, acting as the players' representative, has been in difficult negotiations with club owner Alona Barkat. The players are seeking larger bonuses, particularly for the Europa League, with some players having contractual clauses while others need a separate agreement.

Barkat reportedly offered bonuses that the players found insufficient. Vítor pushed for higher amounts, leading to tense discussions. While Barkat initially suggested discussing the matter after the Sabbath, the players wanted to address it sooner, causing the issue to drag on.

Kandil highlighted the significant disparity in potential earnings, noting that while Hapoel Be'er Sheva offered a net bonus of 115,000 shekels per player for reaching the Champions League, rival clubs Maccabi Haifa and Maccabi Tel Aviv reportedly offered $90,000 per player. The players are aware of these figures and are demanding more, with Kandil emphasizing that Vítor is merely representing the collective interests of the team.

Another meeting between Barkat and player representatives is expected to take place soon in an effort to resolve the dispute.