Kevin De Bruyne Voices Concerns Over Football's Grueling Calendar

Kevin De Bruyne has raised concerns about the heavy football calendar, criticizing FIFA and UEFA for prioritizing financial gains over player welfare. Expansions in competitions are leading to a congested schedule, with FIFPRO taking legal actions against these governing bodies. Player rest periods are alarmingly low, causing potential future issues.

Manchester City midfielder and Belgium captain, Kevin De Bruyne, has criticized FIFA and UEFA for prioritizing financial gains over player welfare, highlighting the alarming impact of a congested football calendar on athletes' health and performance.

With all three European club competitions expanding to 36 teams this season and the Club World Cup growing to 32 teams next June, concerns are mounting about player workload. De Bruyne emphasized the minimal rest period between major tournaments, leaving players with only three weeks to recover before facing another grueling season.

FIFPRO has also launched legal action against FIFA and voiced complaints to EU antitrust regulators regarding the overcrowded international match calendar. Despite the Professional Footballers' Association's efforts to find solutions, De Bruyne argues that financial incentives continue to overshadow player welfare.

(With inputs from agencies.)