Footballers Overworked? Shocking FIFA Club World Cup Impact Revealed!
A new report by Fifpro, the international players' union, has raised serious concerns about player welfare, highlighting the intense workload and travel demands faced by professional footballers. The report, examining data from 2024-25, reveals a “perfect storm of how not to treat a human,” with the FIFA Club World Cup identified as a significant contributor to player fatigue and potential injuries.
Exhausting Schedules and Travel
The Fifpro report highlights the extreme distances some players travel. Australia goalkeeper Mathew Ryan clocked over 169,000km last season representing his country. Veteran Luka Modric played more games than anyone else in the world (76), showcasing the relentless demands on top players. These demanding schedules leave little time for proper rest and recovery, impacting player performance and increasing the risk of injury.
Club World Cup Impact
The timing of the FIFA Club World Cup, held in June and July, is under scrutiny. The report suggests that players participating in the tournament did not receive adequate off-season or pre-season rest. This lack of recovery time can lead to fatigue, muscle injuries, and burnout, negatively affecting both individual players and their respective clubs.
Injury Concerns
The report links player workload to injuries, citing examples of Ballon d'Or winners suffering significant injuries that sidelined them for extended periods. Alex Phillips, the secretary general of Fifpro, questions how long this pattern will continue before club owners recognize the detrimental impact on their business. The research underscores the need for a more balanced approach to scheduling and player management to prioritize player health and longevity.
Young Players at Risk
The study also reveals that young footballers are playing more games than ever before. Lamine Yamal, for example, has played 130 games by the age of 18. This heavy workload at a young age can have long-term consequences for their physical and mental well-being.
The Fifpro report calls for greater consideration of player welfare in scheduling decisions. It urges football governing bodies and club owners to prioritize player health and ensure adequate rest and recovery periods to prevent injuries and burnout.