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

The makers of the Baller League have rejected the sometimes fierce criticism from several amateur soccer clubs, but are seeking talks. “We want the Baller League players to continue playing for the club – that’s another reason 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 from the Cologne area had recently given their players the choice of whether they wanted to continue playing for their club or play in the new indoor league for influencers, ex-professionals and others on Mondays. At fifth-division club FV Bonn-Endenich, five players opted for the new format and were subsequently released. “We don’t want to take the risk of injury,” said Endenich’s sporting director Markus Köppe, adding that the focus on the relegation battle had also been lost.

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