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Victor Petkov
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FIFA warned that player could go on a strike
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The athletes are willing to stop playing if they continue to be overworked with heavy schedule

The ongoing issue of player overwork in professional football has escalated, with the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) warning FIFA that players are considering a strike if their workload is not reduced. PFA chief executive Maheta Molango expressed that players have reached their limit, highlighting the strain placed on them by the congested football calendar, especially with the upcoming expanded 32-team Club World Cup scheduled for next summer.

Molango recounted a recent visit to a dressing room where players voiced their frustrations and the possibility of taking drastic measures. “I can tell you a situation not even 10 days ago where I went to a dressing room directly affected and I said: ‘I’m happy to be here and bark a bit but ultimately it’s down to you. How far would you like to go?” said Molango. “Some of them said: ‘I’m not having it, we may as well strike.’ Some said: ‘what’s the point? Yes I’m a millionaire but I don’t even have time to spend the money’.”

Highlighting the urgency of the issue, Molango mentioned that it is not only the union raising these concerns but also high-profile managers like Jürgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola. “We have reached a point where we cannot discount any action,” Molango stated.

The PFA has been advocating for changes and has even threatened legal action regarding the increasing number of matches players are required to play. In collaboration with Fifpro and the World Leagues Association (WLA), which includes the Premier League, a letter was sent to FIFA in May. This letter warned of potential legal action if FIFA proceeds with its plans to host a 32-team Club World Cup at the end of next season.

The growing concerns from players, managers, and unions indicate a significant tension between maintaining the sport’s commercial demands and ensuring the well-being of its athletes. The situation suggests that without meaningful changes to the football calendar, the sport may face unprecedented actions, including potential strikes from players to address their workload and recovery needs.