Spanish players threaten strike before La Liga season

If a collective bargaining agreement is not signed, it looks likely that players in Spain's La Liga will go on strike at the start of the new season. The news was announced on Thursday by the head of Spain's Football Players Association (AFE) Luis Rubiales. Rubiales appeared with 100 footballers from every team in the top two Spanish divisions.Attendees included high profile names like Barcelona captain Carles Puyol and Real Madrid stars such as Xabi Alonso and goalkeeper Casillas. Other stars backing the strike included Javi Martinez, Santi Cazorla and Fernando Llorente.Rubiales maintained that players are unanimous, stating that the season will not kick off before an agreement is reached. The curtain raiser is scheduled for 20-21 August, but this may now be pushed back.Some clubs have had financial problems leading to difficulties with paying wages. Mallorca were banned from the Europa Leage in 2010-2011 because of financial problems, while Hercules and Real Zaragoza have also struggled.Rubiales stated that Spanish professionals want to be treated like players across Europe. As he stated, "We are not asking for more money, but want contracts to be respected. All the players deserve the same treatment, regardless of the team they play for", calling the situation "lamentable."Buy Real Madrid or Barcelona tickets today for when the season gets underway.