US Edition
Alexander: Is There Such a Thing as Too Much Soccer?
VIENNA, AUSTRIA, JUN 23 – FIFA's extended global calendar, including the new Club World Cup, has led to players exceeding 70 matches yearly, raising health and availability concerns, FIFPRO said.
- Erling Haaland and other top players have voiced concerns about the excessive length of the current soccer season, which can exceed 70 games a year.
- These concerns arise amid a worldwide soccer calendar that is increasingly demanding, with limited regard for players' health, despite significant financial incentives for organizers.
- Christian Pulisic exemplifies this issue, having played 60 games from June 24 to May 24 while missing time due to injuries and declining to participate in the current CONCACAF Gold Cup.
- FIFPRO, representing players and 26 European leagues, filed a legal claim against FIFA last year, calling the new Club World Cup a tipping point and warning of possible future strikes due to overload.
- These events indicate increasing conflict between the well-being of players and commercial priorities, as the season—considered the longest on record—concludes on July 13 with the final match of FIFA’s Club World Cup, underscoring the importance of balancing competitive demands and athlete health.
12 Articles
12 Articles
The Billings Gazette
Is there such a thing as too much soccer?
When Christian Pulisic, currently considered this country’s best soccer player, declined to play for the U.S. Men’s National Team in the current CONCACAF Gold Cup and then engaged in a long-distance wars of words both with current national team coach…
Jim Alexander: Is there such a thing as too much soccer?
When Christian Pulisic, currently considered this country’s best soccer player, declined to play for the U.S. Men’s National team in the current CONCACAF Gold Cup and then engaged in a long-distance wars of words both with current national team coach…
LA Daily News
Alexander: Is there such a thing as too much soccer?
Open the article to view the coverage from LA Daily News
The hot heat at the club's World Cup poses challenges for players, coaches and spectators. The debate is now controversial about the kick-off times optimized for the European sofa audience – also with regard to the 2026 World Cup.
Why players and fans need a high level of suffering in the club's World Cup. Why the World Federation of FIFA doesn't think it's enough to postpone games despite the impending temperatures of 40 degrees. Plus: Scientists warn that the 2026 World Cup could be even worse.
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