Manchester City midfielder and Belgium captain Kevin De Bruyne recently spoke out about the overwhelming impact of a congested calendar on players’ health and performance. With the expansion of all three European club competitions to 36 teams this season, concerns have been raised about the toll it will take on the players. De Bruyne highlighted the challenges that players will face, especially after the Club World Cup, with only three weeks to rest and prepare for another 80 matches.
FIFPRO’s European member unions have gone as far as to take legal action against FIFA over the expansion of the men’s 32-team Club World Cup, scheduled to start in the United States next June. The players’ union is concerned that the current calendar does not prioritize player welfare, leaving players with minimal time to rest and recover between fixtures. The impact of the extended season on players remains a critical issue that needs to be addressed urgently.
De Bruyne also pointed out that the continuous addition of matches by UEFA and FIFA without considering the players’ well-being indicates that money speaks louder than the players’ voices. The failure to find solutions to alleviate the burden on players suggests that financial interests are prioritized over the health and performance of the athletes. This imbalance raises serious questions about the sustainability of the current schedule and its impact on the players’ long-term well-being.
A report by the International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES) revealed that there is no concrete evidence of a significant increase in elite player workload since the 2000s. However, the data presented by the independent research centre underscores the intense demands placed on players, particularly in leagues like the Premier League. With England recording the highest number of domestic back-to-back matches among European leagues, the need for a more balanced and player-friendly schedule is evident.
The mounting concerns over player welfare and the impact of fixture congestion on performance highlight the urgent need for regulatory bodies to prioritize the well-being of players. While financial considerations are undoubtedly important, the long-term health and sustainability of the athletes should not be sacrificed for short-term gains. Players like Kevin De Bruyne are speaking out against the imbalance in the current system, urging stakeholders to find solutions that prioritize player welfare and ensure a more sustainable and equitable schedule for all.
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