The Baller League has responded to the sometimes fierce criticism from amateur clubs. They want to coexist alongside the clubs, they say.

The creators of the Baller League have rejected the sometimes fierce criticism from several amateur soccer clubs, but are seeking dialogue. “We want the players of the Baller League to continue playing in the club – that’s why we are in contact with everyone and are happy to help,” founder Felix Starck told the SID: “The Baller League has always said that we are happy to coexist with the clubs.”

Several clubs in the Cologne area recently gave their players the choice of whether they wanted to continue playing for their club or play for influencers, ex-professionals and others in the new indoor league on Mondays. At fifth-division club FV Bonn-Endenich, five players chose the new format and were subsequently released. “We don’t want to take the risk of injury,” said Endenich’s sports director Markus Köppe, adding that the focus on the relegation battle had been lost.

Starck has little sympathy for the dismissals. “From an employment law perspective, it is questionable to forbid players to play soccer in their free time,” he said. “On the other hand, it is important to emphasize that no one here can be accused of misconduct and these examples show how seriously our league is taken and at what high level it is played. We at the Baller League have proactively approached the clubs. I didn’t want any club to issue an ultimatum.”