Banfield is currently experiencing one of its most significant institutional crises in recent years. The professional team refused to attend training at the Florencio Sola stadium yesterday as a protest against unpaid wages.
Players claim they are owed three months’ salary, a situation affecting much of the club’s staff who have also joined the strike. This protest led to a complete halt in sporting activities, as well as work in other areas of the club.
The situation is particularly critical as Banfield is one of the few teams that has not yet licensed its players, given their commitment to the Copa Argentina’s Round of 32 match against Tigre.
Compounding the issue, reports surfaced that youth teams could not train recently due to a strike in the equipment area, highlighting the severity of the institutional conflict.
Under the leadership of Matías Mariotto, who took charge in October, the administration issued an alarming financial report months ago, revealing a total debt of 13.5 million dollars, which includes 890.5 million pesos and 19,000 dollars in overdue professional football salaries, along with 372 million pesos owed to administrative and educational staff.
Additionally, FIFA has banned the club from registering new players due to a debt stemming from a transfer dispute with León from Mexico regarding Nicolás Sosa Sánchez. This situation prevents the club from signing any reinforcements until they settle a debt of 165,000 dollars plus interest.
Beyond football, the educational institute affiliated with the club has also encountered issues, with teachers going on strike this week due to unpaid wages. Claims indicate that they have not been compensated for two months, and they also lack benefits and health coverage, disrupting the education of hundreds of students and drawing strong reactions from club members and families.
Despite these challenges, Banfield managed to introduce its first and only reinforcement, Rodrigo Auzmendi, who signed until the end of 2026. Auzmendi, a 24-year-old forward, comes highly recommended by coach Pedro Troglio, who worked with him in the Honduran league.
This situation presents a complex landscape for Banfield, showcasing the urgent need for resolution to ensure the future stability of both its football operations and educational initiatives. There is hope that the recent signing can energize the squad and help guide the club through these difficult times, reflecting resilience in adversity.