Barcelona forward Robert Lewandowski has expressed concerns regarding the excessive amount of football that players are required to participate in. He believes that the packed competition calendar is ultimately leading to a decline in the quality of the games. FIFA has recently offered to hold talks with global football leagues and player unions to address this issue after facing legal threats. Lewandowski highlighted the challenges faced due to the increased number of games in the Champions League and the demands of playing for both club and national teams.
Lewandowski emphasized that the grueling schedule poses a significant challenge for players as they are expected to maintain peak performance levels with minimal rest. He pointed out that the intensity of the games leaves little time for adequate recovery and mental preparation, ultimately impacting the quality of football matches. The Polish international stressed that players are human and not machines, implying that the physical and mental toll of constant matches can hinder their ability to deliver consistently exceptional performances.
Despite ongoing transfer speculations surrounding Barcelona’s interest in new signings like Dani Olmo and Nico Williams, Lewandowski remains unfazed by such rumors. He mentioned that his focus is solely on the existing squad until new players are officially added to the team. His teammate, goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, echoed Lewandowski’s sentiments by acknowledging that reinforcements could benefit the team but emphasized that the current squad is capable of competing at a high level.
Barcelona’s upcoming preseason friendly against Real Madrid in New Jersey serves as a testing ground for the team as they gear up for the new season. The match will provide an opportunity for players to showcase their abilities and assess their readiness for the challenges ahead. Despite concerns raised about the demanding schedule, Barcelona remains focused on their competitive edge and is eager to demonstrate their capabilities on the field.
Robert Lewandowski’s remarks shed light on the detrimental effects of excessive football matches on player performance and overall game quality. As the football community continues to address these concerns, it is essential to prioritize player welfare and strike a balance between competition and rest to ensure sustained excellence on the pitch.