The financial situation has PFA bracing for a spike in mental health issues among players saying there has already been a surge in anxiety related cases due to the uncertainty surrounding careers and contracts.
The organisation has worked with 200 players in relation to mental health issues over the past 12 months and has experienced a 400 per cent increase in cases over the past three years.
Those figures could soar in the coming months with more than 100 A-League players out of contract by June 1 and only five W-League players contracted for next season,potentially leading to a significant increase in stress and anxiety issues for athletes caused by the loss of income. Even those who are contracted are suffering financial burdens with Perth Glory standing down its entire staff while the A-League is suspended.