Mannheim – German football professional Pascal Gross from the Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion is, in his own words, open to a waiver of wages so that other club employees continue to get their wages.
“Because I was brought up to show solidarity,” said Gross to the “kicker”. As a footballer, he was privileged, emphasized the 28-year-old. “It goes without saying for me to help ensure that the employees at the branch office or the witness manager, simply everyone, can continue to be paid.”
Many would have helped him in the early days as a foreigner in the club. “I’m grateful for that,” said Gross. “Now I can give something back.”
While some English clubs sent their non-gambling employees on vacation, the professionals were initially unable to agree on a salary waiver. This caused public debate and keen criticism from fans in England. “I would not forego money because fans expect it, but because I want it myself,” said the former Ingolstadt resident. “In general, everyone should try to help in whatever way.”
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, Pascal Gross is currently staying with his family in Mannheim. Despite being in a relegation battle with Brighton & Hove Albion, he hopes that the Premier League season will not be abandoned, but will continue. “We are professionals to measure ourselves against others,” said the midfielder. “I don’t want to avoid relegation by breaking off.”
