Real Madrid players have agreed to cut their salaries by as much as a fifth, the La Liga club announced on Wednesday, as Spanish football remains on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The players and coaches of the football and basketball first teams of Real Madrid, have agreed on pay cuts of between 10 and 20 per cent. The club made the announcement on its website.

It said the teams led by their captains, together with the main directors of the different departments of the club agreed to voluntarily reduce their remuneration for this year.

This depends “on the circumstances that may affect the closing of the current 2019/20 sports season”.

“This decision, taken by players, coaches and employees, avoids traumatic measures that affect the rest of the workers, as well as contributing to the economic objectives of the entity in view of the decrease in income that it is suffering these months as a result of the suspension of competitions and the paralysis of a large part of its commercial activities.

The club said its Business Committee strongly praised this decision, as responsible and exemplary.

“Real Madrid is proud of all those who make up this great family and of its unwavering culture of values, which is especially valuable in difficult times such as these.

“In the same way, Real Madrid, its members and fans, want to show all their love and solidarity to those who have suffered the direct consequences of this disease that is hitting us all, especially those who have lost a family member or loved one.

“The club wishes a quick recovery to all the sick people and wants to transmit its deepest gratitude to all the people who are playing an essential, exemplary and solidarity role in the fight against COVID-19.

“From Real Madrid, we offer all our support and strength with the conviction that together we will overcome, without a doubt, this difficult moment”.