LFP chief Javier Tebas says Real Madrid paying €100m for Gareth Bale is not immoral, and commented on the player exodus and League’s broadcast rights.
At the general assembly for the Spanish Football League (LFP) held in Barcelona this week, it was put to the organisation’s President that Madrid’s preparedness to pay upwards of €100m for Tottenham’s Bale was ‘immoral’.
“It is immoral to buy something that you cannot pay for, I see more immorality in paying €1m that you do not have,” responded Tebas to reporters at his post-meeting Press conference.
“To buy a player for €100m is a significant amount, but if Real Madrid can afford it then it is not immoral, only an operation that may be risky.
“I don’t know much about him, but if Bale is good then I would rather than he is here [in the Primera Division] than in the Premier League.
“It is not about the cost, but what he can generate and if the League has all of the stars then it can maintain a high level. What allows for the arrival of these players is increased income.”
A number of high profile stars have made the move out of Spain this summer and many have chosen the Premier League.
“Regarding the departure of players, it is bittersweet. The clubs need to reduce their debts, I am sorry that players are leaving, but it is good news as this is route we have chosen.
“Spanish football pays €120m a year in interest, think of the players that we could have with that money and the wages that could be paid.
“If we can reduce that number, in four to five seasons then we will have about €100m to invest in football.
“This is the way to go and the clubs know it.”
A strong and continuing debate in Spain surrounds the uneven distribution of broadcast rights, which sees Barcelona and Real Madrid pull in half the total pot.
“That increased sharing of the rights will make for greater competitiveness is not true. La Liga has 20 clubs and 12 compete to avoid relegation, others try to get into Europe and others fight for the title.
“Those that may challenge Barcelona and Real Madrid struggle to reduce their debt and to not have to sell players.
“The distribution of rights must be made more equitable, but from 2010 to 2012 it has already been done.
“But if you took away €50m from Madrid or Barca, could they keep Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi or Neymar? Will they be competitive in Europe?
“Would the stars continue here or would they go to PSG? Would the broadcast rights earn as much money? This must be taken into account.”
