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, stemming from a dispute over bonuses, according to former player Maor Kandil. The conflict reportedly began after a victory against Red Star Belgrade, with club captain Miguel Vítor, representing the players, pushing for higher bonus amounts.

Kandil explained on the "5 Ba'avir" program that while some players have European competition bonuses stipulated in their contracts, others do not and require a separate agreement. Vítor has been advocating for these players to secure a satisfactory deal.

Alona Barkat, the club owner, reportedly offered bonuses that the players found insufficient. Vítor's attempts to negotiate a higher sum led to heated discussions, described as uncharacteristic, between him and Barkat. The players wanted to resolve the issue before the Sabbath, while Barkat preferred to discuss it afterward, causing the matter to drag on.

Kandil highlighted the significant difference in potential earnings, noting that while Hapoel Be'er Sheva offered 115,000 NIS (approximately $31,000 USD) per player for Champions League qualification, rival clubs Maccabi Haifa and Maccabi Tel Aviv reportedly offered $90,000 USD each. The players are aware of these figures and are seeking comparable compensation, with Vítor acting as their representative rather than engaging in a personal dispute with Barkat.

Another meeting between Barkat and player representatives is expected to take place soon to try and resolve the ongoing disagreement.