Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu says captain Lionel Messi made it clear from day one that the players would need to take pay cuts due to the coronavirus crisis.
The players confirmed on Monday they would be taking a 70% salary reduction as well as contributing further to ensure club employees would receive all their wages.
Their statement also expressed frustration at criticism aimed at players for not coming to an agreement more quickly, and Bartomeu has now offered his thoughts on the developments.
“From the first moment, Messi said that this must be done.