Deji WilliamsIn recent weeks, several high-profile footballers, including Rodri, Heung-Min Son, Alisson, and Manuel Akanji, have voiced their concerns regarding the increasing demands placed on players due to an expanding match schedule. As the football landscape evolves, it’s becoming clear that the well-being of players is at a critical juncture.
A recent complaint filed by executives from FIFPRO, the European Leagues, and LaLiga has spotlighted the implications of an overloaded international match calendar. Central to this complaint is the planned expansion of the FIFA Club World Cup to 32 teams starting in 2025 and the FIFA World Cup to 46 teams in 2026. This expansion raises serious questions about player safety and the sustainability of national competitions that fans have cherished for generations.
Sky Sports recently conducted a study revealing that the workloads of modern-day players are significantly higher than in previous decades. As the beautiful game grows in popularity, so too does the pressure on players to perform at an elite level throughout the year. This relentless schedule not only poses risks to player health but also threatens the very fabric of competitions that have long been a source of pride for fans.
FIFPRO’s stance is clear: the new football calendar may infringe upon European Union competition law. They argue that the current trajectory risks undermining the economic and social sustainability of crucial national leagues, which are vital to the sport’s heritage.
As we look ahead to the future of football, it’s essential to strike a balance between the growth of the game and the welfare of those who play it. The voices of players and governing bodies alike must be heard as we navigate these changes. After all, the heart of football lies not just in the matches played but in the health and happiness of its players.
