Burela FS Faces Severe Financial Crisis After Loss of Long-term Sponsor
Spanish futsal club Burela FS is experiencing a critical financial situation following the departure of its primary sponsor, Pescados Rubén. The seafood company, which had supported the club for 23 years, withdrew its sponsorship due to its own financial difficulties.
The impact on the club has been severe, with reports indicating that nearly 50 staff members, including players and coaches, are currently awaiting unpaid salaries. Now the club needs to secure approximately 300,000 euros to fill the financial void left by Pescados Rubén’s departure.
Burela FS holds a unique position in Spanish futsal as the only club fielding teams in both men’s and women’s top divisions. The women’s squad features Portuguese talents Débora Lavrador and Carolina Pedreira.
Manuel Blanco, the club’s president and son of Pescados Rubén’s owner, has appealed to local authorities for increased financial support. The club, which maintains a membership of 600, has also established a bank account for public donations.
The financial strain has already triggered player departures. Ivan de Uña is reportedly transferring to Ribera Navarra, while Guilherme Meira and Jorge Quelle are also leaving. Additional players, including Bernardo Araya, Rikelme, and Juninho, may follow suit.
Men’s team coach David Rial expressed his frustration after a recent draw against Noia, stating that the club’s financial troubles have overshadowed the sporting aspects. Despite these challenges, the newly promoted club currently holds the 12th position in the league with 14 points.
