Former Arsenal full-back Hector Bellerin has often made the news due to his strong beliefs and activism on issues that he cares deeply about. For a long time the 29 year old has been speaking out on environmental issues and taking action where he can, but more recently he has been talking about other issues a lot closer to his profession.

In a recent interview, Bellerin said: “I wish women and men had equal salaries in football, it’s just fair. I want equality.” It is very uncommon for a male footballer to make bold statements on pay such as this, despite this topic being heavily debated by football fans on social media for a long time.

Bellerin has already been heavily criticised online for this statement, as many argue that women’s football is less popular and therefore there is less money in the women’s game. There are others on social media who have supported his statement, which just goes to show how divisive the topic is.

🎙️ Hector Bellerín: "I wish women and men had equal salaries in football, it's just fair. I want equality." pic.twitter.com/inNi70kQE9

— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) July 21, 2024

It is not the first time Bellerin has been criticised for his views. Since 2017 the Spanish defender has spoken out on environmental, political, social and health issues ranging from the lifestyles of most footballers to ongoing conflicts around the world.

In 2020 he became the second largest shareholder of National League side Forest Green Rovers. He praised the club for their commitments to sustainability, environmentalism and veganism, something Bellerin has been an advocate for ever since he became vegan in 2017.

In April, the Premier League committed a further £33m to the grassroots game in England on top of what they already provide. Amongst their beneficiaries will be a push to give girls the same opportunities to get involved in football as boys, as they look to raise the women’s game up to the same level as the men’s game.