The social security contribution of professional football players is now calculated on a fixed notional wage of 2,474.22 euros per month. Even if a football player earns a lot more money, he still only pays 942 euros to social security. The federal government wants to put an end to this: the high earners will have to cough up much more.
The top clubs in particular will feel the consequences in their money bag, because until now the Belgian first division players have received millions in social security benefits. “And if the clubs have to pay more, there will be less money left for players,” fears Hein Vanhaezebrouck. “Then only less good players will want to come.”
“Everyone then says: then bet more on youth players, but we are already struggling to keep our youth players. We have to pay astronomical amounts to keep good youth players aged 14-15. Otherwise they will just be snatched by the much more wealthy clubs .”
“You cannot immediately bring youth players from your own country and expect the team to reach the same level. I fear a decline in the level in Belgium. We will fight at a lower level.”
His colleague at Anderlecht, Vincent Kompany, believes the arrangement could have a positive impact for the youth players. “In the short term it will be a step backwards, but we are taking a step forward by allowing youth teams in 1B.”
“For example, we will have competitive youth players faster who will be able to fill more positions in 1A. We have an interesting reserve of talent in Belgium.”
“In the long term we can come out of this period stronger. But then the infrastructure has to be better. I don’t believe that Belgian football will be less good in 10 years than today.”
“I have a lot of confidence in it, because I see the youth playing at Neerpede every day. Those guys need time and opportunities, but they can participate in modern football: they are made for pressing, playing football collectively, switching moments… They’ve all learned that a long time ago.”
