KUALA LUMPUR – Kuala Lumpur City FC skipper Paulo Josue may have to leave the club if ongoing salary issues are not resolved.
Speaking to Scoop, Josue revealed that while he has received offers from several foreign clubs, he has chosen to stay with the City Boys out of loyalty and trust in the club’s management.
KL City, under the Kuala Lumpur Football Association (KLFA), has been facing financial difficulties. Josue claims he has not received his salary for seven months and has been relying on his savings to get by.
According to transfermarkt.com, the 35-year-old Brazil-born attacking midfielder, with a current market value of RM1.39 million, earns between RM105,000 and RM110,000 per month.
Josue, who joined the City Boys in 2017, has made 137 appearances and scored 53 goals for the club.
“I have spoken with the management many times, including with the CEO, Stanley Bernard, and leaving the club will be my last option if the salary issues continue. If something drastic happens, like the club shutting down, I won’t have a choice but to leave.
“I love the club, the city, and the country, but I cannot just play for love. I have financial obligations. It’s tough when I can’t afford certain things that I want for my family.
“I’ve received calls from coaches at other clubs, and my agent keeps me updated. I’m open to listening to offers, but that’s a last resort.
“I’d love to retire at KL City and eventually join the coaching staff. This club has shaped who I am, and it means a lot to me. My wife and kids also want me to keep playing here. I trust the management, and I hope these financial problems can be resolved soon,” Josue said when contacted.
KL City FC took a financial hit after Rinani Group Bhd, one of its major stakeholders, reduced its sponsorship from 51% to 10% in 2022.
Last November, Stanley, and former KLFA president Khalid Abdul Samad took out separate loans totalling RM300,000 to cover players’ salaries, which had been overdue for months.
KL City FC currently ranks 11th in the Super League standings, with eight points from ten matches. — September 28, 2024