According to FC Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen, the most recent round of talks in Frankfurt was constructive. Speaking on the sidelines of the New Year’s reception of the German Football League (DFL), Dreesen said the discussions helped clarify several key issues. He emphasized that progress had been made collaboratively and confirmed that further meetings are planned in the coming weeks.
Earlier the same day, representatives of the league association also met with the DFB leadership, including president Bernd Neuendorf. Dreesen described this exchange as positive as well and pointed to the next major milestone in the process: the general assembly of the newly established Women’s Bundesliga league association in early February. There, member clubs are expected to be briefed on the proposed path forward with the DFB.
Power Struggle Over Control and Commercial Rights Continues
The renewed talks follow a major breakdown in December, when disagreements over governance, commercial control, and long-term professionalization publicly escalated. Trust between the clubs and the DFB was significantly damaged, but both sides now appear willing to resume dialogue in Frankfurt in an effort to avoid a lasting split.
At the center of the negotiations is the planned formation of a joint venture known as Frauen-Bundesliga GmbH (FBL GmbH). If an agreement is reached, the new entity would assume responsibility for key areas such as marketing, league development, and youth programs from July 1 onward. Governance would be shared equally, with three representatives each from the DFB and the league association, while the six-member board would appoint the management.
Minimum Salary of €3,000 Seen as Key Professional Milestone
One element of the proposal is considered largely undisputed: the introduction of a minimum base salary of €3,000 gross for players in the Women’s Bundesliga. Draft licensing regulations describe the measure as a decisive step toward establishing women’s football as a recognized profession. While the average salary in the league currently stands at around €4,500, a significant number of players still earn well below that level.
The coming weeks are expected to be decisive. While the prospect of new jobs, increased revenues, and greater visibility continues to drive the discussions, the underlying power struggle between the DFB and the clubs remains unresolved. Whether the joint venture becomes reality — or negotiations collapse once again — will shape the future of women’s football in Germany.
This article was created with the assistance of AI and has been reviewed and edited by our editorial team.
