By Oyinlola Awonuga (The New Diplomat’s Entertainment, Style and Sports Desk)
Manchester United has received a new statement from the Premier League today confirming that the competition has been postponed due to the coronavirus crisis.
A statement issued today to this effect was quite explicit: “At a meeting of Premier League Shareholders today, clubs discussed in detail how to respond to the COVID-19 global pandemic.
”First and foremost, it was reaffirmed that the overriding priority is to aid the health and wellbeing of the nation and our communities, including players, coaches, managers, club staff and supporters.
“It was acknowledged that the Premier League will not resume at the beginning of May – and that the 2019/20 season will only return when it is safe and appropriate to do so.
“The restart date is under constant review with all stakeholders, as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic develops and we work together through this very challenging time.”
The Premier further revealed that it is ” working closely with the whole of professional football in this country, as well as with the Government, public agencies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the game achieves a collaborative solution,” stressing that ” with this, there is a combined objective for all remaining domestic league and cup matches to be played, enabling us to maintain the integrity of each competition.” The statement further stated in details: “However, any return to play will only be with the full support of Government and when medical guidance allows.
“The sporting and financial implications for Premier League clubs as well as for The FA, EFL and National League were considered at today’s meeting.
“In the face of substantial and continuing losses for the 2019/20 season since the suspension of matches began, and to protect employment throughout the professional game, Premier League clubs unanimously agreed to consult their players regarding a combination of conditional reductions and deferrals amounting to 30 per cent of total annual remuneration.
“This guidance will be kept under constant review as circumstances change. The League will be in regular contact with the PFA and the union will join a meeting which will be held tomorrow between the League, players and club representatives.
“Discussions also took place regarding financial relief for clubs in the short term and while there is no single solution, measures are to be put in place to immediately deal with the impact of falling cash flow. Critically, the League unanimously voted to advance funds of £125 million to the EFL and National League as it is aware of the severe difficulties clubs throughout the football pyramid are suffering at this time.
“Further to that assistance, the League remains committed to supporting the National Health Service, its staff and helping people in communities, not least those who are most vulnerable. The League, clubs, players and managers express huge appreciation for the heroic efforts of NHS staff and all other key workers who are carrying out critical jobs in such difficult circumstances. The Premier League began in 1992 preceded by the First Division of the Football League that was founded in 1888.”
