European soccer leaders tell UEFA of unhappiness with longer 4-game schedule for national teams
UEFA will gather member feedback after clubs and coaches said the 16-day format increases injuries and disrupts domestic schedules.
- Following the conclusion of the four-game international window this week, European soccer federations told UEFA they oppose the new extended match schedule. Only Azerbaijan among the 55 member federations defended FIFA's calendar management.
- FIFA finalized the international calendar through 2030, mandating these longer blocks to accommodate global needs. European clubs initially sought fewer, longer breaks to reduce travel disruption, but the four-game format is now locked in for four more years.
- Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kova said this week that clubs lose momentum and players return injured after two weeks without matches. Norway coach Stale Solbakken noted the schedule was "more brutal" for Champions League players, with Erling Haaland requesting substitution during a Nations League match.
- UEFA will gather feedback from member federations to prepare a formal submission to FIFA regarding the extended international window. Officials reported that the schedule stretched resources for coaches in smaller countries and placed demands on fans and sponsors.
- Despite the objections, the four-game block remains locked in on the FIFA-managed calendar through 2030. Next year national teams will use the window for qualifying games leading to the 2028 European Championship, continuing the current structure.
21 Articles
21 Articles
Los Angeles Times
Independent EspañolThe European football federations told UEFA that they are not happy with the new expanded blocks of four international matches that ended this week.
The Toronto Star
European soccer leaders tell UEFA of unhappiness with longer 4-game schedule for national teams
BERLIN (AP) — European soccer federations told UEFA they are not happy with the new extended four-game blocks of international matches that finished this week.
Terra
Portal GMC Online16-day window concentrated four games per selection and generated criticism for the physical wear and tear of the players and for the increase in injuries
The vast majority of the leaders of the member associations expressed their dissatisfaction with the European Football Association (UEFA) due to the first combined and longer national team break. The rule would be abolished now. The club coaches were not happy about it either.
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