Mexico boss Martino embraces financial 'solidarity' during pandemic

MEXICO CITY - Mexico head coach Gerardo Martino said he would be willing to take a pay cut to help those in need during the coronavirus outbreak.

Martino joins a host of other high-profile football identities to offer a salary reduction as the pandemic brings the world economy to a standstill.

"Obviously we have to be open-minded about all kinds of situations ... to collaborate, show solidarity and help others," Martino told the TUDN television network.

"I think the commitment should be from everybody. It will have to be analyzed to see how much each person can contribute."

England manager Gareth Southgate and Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola are among other coaches who have agreed to lower their wages during football's shutdown.

Last week, Lionel Messi and his Barcelona teammates slashed their salaries by 70% to ensure all of the Spanish club's employees were paid.

The playing squads of Juventus, Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid have also taken voluntary pay cuts.

Martino added: "We haven't discussed the topic yet. In fact our March payment was made as usual. But of course we're open to chatting about it."

The 57-year-old former Barcelona and Argentina national team boss has guided Mexico to 15 wins, one draw and one loss since his appointment in January 2019.