Players around the world are expressing their concerns over the overloaded playing calendar and are ready to take drastic measures. The chief executive of the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), Maheta Molango, has stated that players are at a breaking point and are considering going on strike. This comes in response to FIFA’s intention to increase the number of matches that footballers will have to endure next season with the new Club World Cup on the horizon.
Molango believes that the packed schedule in football not only endangers the health of players but also diminishes the quality of the sport. He recounts a recent incident where players in a dressing room were discussing the situation and some of them even mentioned the possibility of going on strike. The demands on players have increased significantly in recent years with the expansion of tournaments and the emergence of new competitions.
Global players’ union FIFPRO, along with the PFA and the World Leagues Association (WLA), are leading the charge in threatening legal action if FIFA does not address the concerns raised by the players. They have expressed their worries over the expansion of the new 32-team Club World Cup and are demanding that changes be made to the playing calendar. However, FIFA has denied making any unilateral decisions to favor its competitions and has refused to consider rescheduling the tournament.
Molango highlights the fact that changes in the domestic calendar in England have been influenced by FIFA and UEFA decisions. He stresses that the current situation is a clear indication that something needs to be done to address the concerns of the players. While diplomatic avenues are being explored, time is running out and players are becoming increasingly frustrated with the lack of action from FIFA.
As the debate over the overloaded playing calendar continues, it raises important questions about the future of football. The well-being of players should be a top priority, and the quality of the sport should not be compromised due to an excessive number of matches. It is essential for governing bodies like FIFA to listen to the concerns of the players and take necessary actions to ensure a sustainable and balanced playing calendar. Only then can football thrive and continue to capture the hearts of fans around the world.