Players’ union FIFPRO and the top European leagues have voiced significant concerns regarding FIFA’s recent decision to expand the international match calendar. This issue, now brought to the attention of the European Commission, revolves around the expanded schedules for both the FIFA Club World Cup and the FIFA World Cup. Executives from FIFPRO, the European Leagues, and LaLiga have formally filed a complaint addressing the implications of these changes on players and domestic competitions.
The crux of the matter centers on FIFA’s plans to increase the Club World Cup from its current format to include 32 teams starting in 2025, alongside the World Cup’s expansion to 46 teams in 2026. FIFPRO argues that these adjustments violate European Union competition law and pose risks not only to player safety and well-being but also threaten the economic and social sustainability of many valued national competitions. These competitions have, for many years, provided joy to fans throughout Europe and beyond, underpinning the sport’s cultural significance.
In making their case, the complaint posits that FIFA’s decisions are not only “abusive” but also lack justification. It highlights the governing body’s indisputable dominant position in global football, which, according to FIFPRO, can lead to conditions that may undermine the quality and integrity of the sport at various levels. They emphasize the need for a balanced approach that considers both the welfare of players and the traditions of existing competitions.
Supporting this complaint, SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster remarked, “Calendar congestion isn’t a fresh problem in professional football. But with this constant addition of international fixtures, we’ve reached a saturation point, and it is becoming increasingly challenging to manage domestic competitions.” His statement reflects a growing unease about the already congested football calendar, suggesting that these expansions could lead to unforeseen challenges not just for players but for entire leagues struggling to maintain their schedules.
High-profile players have also expressed their apprehensions regarding the increasing demands on their time and physical capabilities. Manchester City midfielder Rodri has been particularly vocal, indicating that players may soon reach a tipping point where they consider striking due to the overwhelming number of matches. This concern was amplified by his recent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season and highlighted the physical toll of the current demands on players.
Other notable players like Manuel Akanji from Manchester City, Tottenham’s captain Heung-Min Son, and Liverpool’s Alisson have joined in the chorus of concern, alluding to the burdens placed upon elite professionals in the sport. Alisson himself is currently recovering from an injury, underscoring the risks associated with the packed schedules.
The implications of these expansions are set to materialize as the expanded 32-team Club World Cup is slated to take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13 next summer. Participants, including Manchester City and Chelsea—representing England—face stringent requirements imposed by FIFA that mandate they field their strongest squads throughout the tournament. This stipulation adds another layer of pressure, especially after a demanding season filled with both domestic and international commitments. With these developments, the dialogue surrounding player welfare and competition integrity is more crucial than ever.
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