The calls for action on player workload are growing louder. Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany and Bayer Leverkusen counterpart Xabi Alonso have joined the chorus, echoing the concerns of many players about the relentless schedule. This comes amidst talk of potential strikes due to the sheer number of games demanding their attention.
Kompany, who himself experienced the grueling demands of professional football during his playing days, believes a cap on the number of games a player can participate in each year is essential. He advocates for a “compulsory period of holidays” as well, highlighting the need for a break from the constant pressure.
Alonso, echoing the sentiments of many, emphasizes the importance of player involvement in decisions surrounding the fixture calendar. He believes that “professional players must be involved in these decisions because we want to see good football.”
The concerns are not unfounded. With the expanded Champions League format and the upcoming 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, top clubs with European and domestic cup commitments could face a daunting 75 games this season. This creates a constant pressure on players, who are pushed to their limits, leading to a heightened risk of injuries and burnout.
This growing frustration has reached a point where even Rodri, the midfielder for Manchester City, has stated that players are “close to a strike.” He emphasizes that if the situation continues to worsen, “there will be a time when there’s no other option.”
Kompany, who previously served as a member of the FIFPro players union, sees a cap on games as a solution that would “take away the pressure on the clubs.” He acknowledges the need for exceptions for finals, stating that “we can’t take that away from players.”
As Bayern Munich faces a demanding schedule, Kompany has promised squad rotations in the coming weeks. He highlights the importance of managing the workload for the benefit of the players and the team’s overall performance.
With these calls for action, the pressure is mounting on football authorities to address the growing concerns regarding player workload. The potential of player strikes is a stark reminder of the need for a sustainable approach that prioritizes player well-being and ensures the long-term health of the sport.
