We Are The Reds

Gertjan Verbeek went on an adventure with Adelaide United in Australia, but is currently in a difficult position with his selected staff. As with all other clubs, salaries are frozen as of April 1. Verbeek is angry with the actions of Australian club owners and the way he and his players have been treated.

Verbeek is experiencing a year with highs and lows in Australia. The Dutch trainer experienced a sporting highlight with a cup win, but he also experienced the serious situation with the forest fires and is now confronted with the consequences of the corona crisis. "On Monday we were told by the club that we have to stop all football activities," said Verbeek from Adelaide.

Where European club salaries cut in consultation with players, Australian club owners use a more rigorous approach, as Verbeek and his players found. "From April 1, we will no longer receive a salary, we will be without income."

Verbeek is not only angry about the measure - no salary, but working on and training individually in the run-up to a possible resumption of the competition - but especially about the way the clubs communicate. The Adelaide employees only received a letter on the doormat, Verbeek was brought up to date via its technical director. The Dutch owner Piet van der Pol kept quiet towards his trainer. "I'm surprised he hasn't made contact yet."

The measures are causing problems for the players of Adelaide United. "There are no Barcelona salaries here, guys really get in trouble this way." The 57-year-old trainer can broadcast it himself for longer, but is also 'not amused' to say the least and competes with his club: "I do my job and fight that I don't get paid."

Verbeek's two-year adventure may therefore come to an early end. "It goes out overnight. If you don't get paid now, how is that going to happen next year? I didn't go here for the big bucks, but if they're going to cut my salary now, I'll almost have to bring some money. "(FOX Sports)

“Given a number of reasons, such as the global health problems, future of the league, difficult financial situation of the Club and the need to protect and care for my family, my future as head coach at Adelaide United was insecure,” said Verbeek from Holland.

“Based on the uncertain period we are currently in, we mutually agreed to end the contract after one season.

“I would like to thank the Adelaide United fans for supporting me and the team through this period.

“It was a great triumph to win the FFA Cup this season and I’m very proud of this accomplishment.

I'd like to see a local manager brought in, Bruce has said before he prefers Australian managers due to the complexity of the league with the salary cap etc.

A few options of varying quality and likeliness that I think would be on the list:

- Michael Valkanis
- Carl Veart
- Tony Vidmar
- Ufuk Talay
- Joe Mullen
- John Aloisi
- Tomaz Kavcic (Current Qingdao Head Coach)
- Jan Poortvliet (Former Dutch International and Fomer Qingdao Head Coach)
- Josep Gombau