Equatorial Guinea national team faces a deadlock in negotiations with the government, as the players led by captain Emilio Nsue demand increased compensation for their participation in the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The players seek a qualification bonus of 16,000 Euros per player and an additional demand of 6000 Euros per match, irrespective of the outcome.
This revelation surfaced during a meeting at the General State Treasury, where the players were briefed on the government’s economic projections for their involvement in the tournament in Cote d’Ivoire.
Milagrosa Obono Angue, the Delegate Minister in Charge of the Treasury, clarified the Treasury’s role in managing state payments.
Interestingly, at the start of the year, the players had initially requested 3000 Euros per match, a demand that was met after negotiations with Football Federation and the Ministry of Sports.
The sudden escalation in demands has raised concerns, especially after recent meetings between head coach Juan Micha, the captain, and several players with the head of state.
This development unfolds against a backdrop of previous conflicts between the Minister of “Zero Tolerance” and the Nzalang Nacional players in November, emphasizing the increasing tensions within the team.
The situation remains fluid as negotiations continue amid heightened uncertainty ahead of their first game of the AFCON against Nigeria on Sunday.
