Manchester United players have reportedly sought legal advice for the eventuality that the season could be ended early due to coronavirus.
Mirror Online reports: “The Red Devils were closing ground on Chelsea in the race for the top four prior to the enforced break, and securing Champions League qualification would pocket each player a 25 percent pay rise.
“But the coronavirus has thrown the season’s conclusion into chaos, and there is a chance they may not be rewarded at all if the campaign is curtailed.”
The Mail report that stars at other clubs are also concerned on missing out on bonuses, which could total £500,000, but its United players who have the most to lose.
“PSG were crowned champions despite having 11 matches remaining, while those placed in the top six will qualify for Europe next season.
“Should the Premier League decide to mirror that strategy, United would finish fifth in the table, outside the Champions League spots,” the report said.
“Given Man City are currently banned from the competition next season, United could receive the fourth available spot for English clubs by default, but only if their rivals’ suspension is not overturned.
“City have appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and that process could take months, particularly with so many more pressing legal issues to come off the back of this crisis.
“Players for most teams in the top-flight would be entitled to a £500,000 windfall for keeping their respective clubs in the league, but that is subject to them featuring in 70 per cent of fixtures.
“With still 9-10 matches left to play, players would fall short of that mark, thus missing out on their bonus.”
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