Uruguay AUF at crossroads amid crunch sponsorship vote

A move by players to bring American sportswear brand Nike into partnership with the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) was a move to democratise football in the South American nation, according to Diego Godin.

Currently signed to an agreement with Montevideo broadcasting corporation Tenfield and German manufacturer Puma, key figures in the playing squad were behind a proposal for a new agreement with Nike, and now their intentions have been made clear.

"Years ago began a fight to restructure and professionalise the AUF with urgency, to democratise the association so that it much better serves the footballing needs of our country," Godin's statement on behalf of the squad, via Twitter, began.

"Only then will we get rid of the plague of outside interests, and cease to sell our rich heritage at a low price."

Comunicado oficial de jugadores de la Selección Uruguaya de Fútbol pic.twitter.com/jKXjXl56DM ? Diego Godín (@diegogodin) 22 de agosto de 2016

On Tuesday, Uruguay's club sides must decide whether the AUF will renew the existing deal with Tenfield, or sign up with Nike.

Indeed, the Nike offer comes with cash incentive, in the case of providing funds for national team coaches. However, a number of clubs owe money to Paco Casal, owner of Tenfield, raising the issue of freedom in their voting decisions.

By placing their flag firmly in one camp, Uruguay's greatest talents hope to sway the power struggle in their favour and push on with further reform in their national game.