Germany International Stars Pledge to Donate €2.5m for Fight Against Coronavirus
By Max Cooper
Footballers earn incredible sums of money for doing what the best job in the world, and they are often heavily criticised for their lavish and luxurious lifestyles. Sometimes that's fair. But sometimes...
We're going to bring a feel-good story your way, in the midst of all this panic and fear. The German national team have decided to donate €2.5m to the fight against the coronavirus, which has made its way around Europe and is forcing many countries to live in quarantine and under extreme conditions.
And the players were keen to spread the word of how and where to donate funds to the company Wir Helfen (We Help), whose sole focus is to help those in need during this time of crisis.
Bayern star Leon Goretzka spoke out about the pledge he and his teammates have made, explaining 'football is currently at a standstill and health is paramount', as cited by Bild.
"Football is currently at a standstill and health is paramount. Accordingly, in solidarity, I would like to ask you to contribute your part and to set an example," Goretzka said. "We as the national team went ahead and donated €2.5m to a good cause and hope that many of you will follow us.”
Bayern teammate Joshua Kimmich also made an appeal to his followers on Instagram, encouraging everyone to 'show solidarity' in these troubling weeks.
"I think we should all be aware of our responsibility and show solidarity right now."
A lovely gesture.
And before you say, "Well, so they should! They earn absolute fortunes and the amount they've given is just pocket change to them," footballers don't have to donate money. Yes, they're fortunate and live fantastic lives, but that shouldn't be used as a stick to beat them with.
The German national team is just another example of the football world banding together to unite against a common evil, and they join a list of players who have donated handsomely and generously to tackle the spread of this deadly virus.
Good on you, guys.