The French footballers’ union has urged FIFA to put a stop to what it describes as a “brutal game” that jeopardises players’ health, accusing President Gianni Infantino of overlooking the consequences of an overloaded calendar, particularly with the expanded Club World Cup.
The UNFP released a pointed statement, highlighting that the tournament is a clear example of how the unrelenting match fixture schedule is pushing players to their limits, both physically and mentally.
“The absurdity of the situation is apparent to everyone – except, of course, Gianni Infantino and his sycophants,” asserted the UNFP.
“From his lofty position, which he tours globally, the FIFA president seems oblivious to the plight that the international calendar imposes on elite players.”
FIFA has not yet responded to the statement when approached by Reuters.
The UNFP pointed out that the Club World Cup, now comprising 32 teams and lasting until July 13, occurs at the end of a particularly demanding season and neglects collective bargaining agreements that ensure players receive a minimum of three weeks of complete rest between seasons.
Players, particularly key figures, are therefore thrust directly into high-pressure matches, increasing the risk of injuries and mental fatigue, according to the union.
“Infantino’s Club World Cup highlights, in a ludicrous manner, the urgent need to end this senseless game of destruction,” added the UNFP.
FIFA contends that it is responsible for less than one per cent of club games, and the Club World Cup entails a maximum of seven games (for two teams) every four years.
Escalating concerns
The sharply worded statement comes amid rising anxiety among players globally about fixture congestion.
Earlier this month, a number of top players expressed their worries regarding the increased risk of injury due to the constant match schedule, with some indicating they were nearing their breaking point.
The UNFP stated it aligns with the global players’ union FIFPRO and FIFPRO Europe in condemning the excessive workload, arguing that the congested calendar undermines player welfare and disrupts domestic competitions.
“In September, Manchester City’s midfielder Rodri sustained a serious knee injury shortly after cautioning that players might go on strike over excessive workloads,” the union emphasised, drawing attention to the real dangers of burnout.
Paris Saint-Germain are competing in the Club World Cup just weeks after clinching the Champions League title on May 31.
Some French clubs have already resumed pre-season training in preparation for the new Ligue 1 season, which kicks off in mid-August, while others are set to return next week.
PSG, who advanced to the Club World Cup quarter-finals with a 4-0 victory over Inter Miami on Sunday, are facing a schedule that fails to accommodate the rest period stipulated in collective agreements.
“We fail to see how or why PSG players should be deprived of the three full weeks of rest they are rightfully entitled to,” warned the UNFP, cautioning that the increased workload could impact the performance of French internationals when national team matches resume in early September.
_______________________________________________
Sponsored:
FIFA Club World Cup – Every Game Free, exclusively on DAZN.
Sign up here to start streaming.
_______________________________________________
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
