With several concerns, SAFPU want dialogue

But Infantino’s excitement is not being shared by the South African Football Players’ Union (SAFPU).

“It is concerning that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) thinks it a clever idea to attempt to ride roughshod over past achievements to benefit very few while leaving wreckage in its wake through the Super League,” said SAFPU

President Thulaganyo Gaoshubelwe in a statement.

“SAFPU is therefore determined to ensure that CAF’s proposals are fully scrutinized, and if necessary, to take whatever steps may be necessary to protect the rights of its members from serious and immediate risk.”

Gaoshubelwe questioned why, even at this late stage, CAF have not yet disclosed the names of clubs that will participate in the Super League, or the criteria of how the clubs will qualify (if there is to be any qualification, other than by invitation).

He further expressed deep concern about the impact of such a decision (to establish a Super League) on

professional leagues across Africa, claiming it could de-value either the existing CAF Champions League or specifically domestic leagues across the continent.

“From a South African perspective, the minimum requirements would be the disclosure of detailed research findings on the impacts of an African Super League, a fair

process of engagement, including opportunities to make representations. A fair process would have to involve, at the very least, the NSL, FIFPRO Africa and SAFPU.

“As SAFPU, we do not accept that CAF can simply decide whatever it likes, fail to assess the consequences and ignore those most affected. We trust South Africans and the rest of Africa will come out against this destructive idea, for we know it will ruin professional football,” he concluded.