The ever-expanding soccer calendar continues to draw criticism from players and managers alike. The latest voice of dissent has come from Spanish international Aymeric Laporte. Speaking out against the increasingly demanding match schedule, Laporte has raised the possibility of a players’ strike. He has suggested it might be the only solution to safeguard their health and well-being. The growing discontent surrounding the soccer calendar reflects broader concerns about player fatigue. It also mirrors the potential for long-term injuries in a sport that prioritizes profit over health.
The question of whether top players are playing too many games is far from a straightforward issue. Rather, as noted by Laporte and other professionals, the situation involves multiple competing interests. Each stakeholder in the soccer ecosystem – governing bodies, clubs, leagues, players, and sponsors – is pushing their own agenda. This creates a web of negotiations, as each side seeks to protect their interests. Eventually, it leads to a complex and often contentious environment.
While some may attribute the relentless schedule to greed or commercial pressure, it’s important to recognize that self-interest is a natural part of any negotiation. In the current scenario, however, players feel they have been pushed beyond the limits of what is reasonable or healthy.
Expanding calendar and its impact
The soccer calendar has grown significantly in recent years. Particularly with the addition of more international tournaments, expanded European competitions, and an increase in domestic fixtures. For example, all three European club competitions – the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League – have expanded to 36 teams. This has further added more games for the top clubs and their players. This has prompted organizations like FIFPRO, the global soccer players’ union, to file complaints with EU regulators. They argue that FIFA’s international…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/spanish-international-joins-rodri-with-threats-of-players-strike/
Author : Martina Alcheva
Publish date : 2024-10-09 16:09:34
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.