Introduction to Player Workload
The International Player Union Fifpro has conducted a review of player workloads, highlighting the extreme physical stress faced by Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi due to his triple season with PSG and national team commitments. Hakimi played 69 games last season, accumulating 6,371 minutes, which is a significant increase from his previous season where he played 53 games for club and country, totaling 4,869 minutes.
Comparison to Other Players
Hakimi is not alone in exceeding the recommended limit of 55 games per season. Joshua Kimmich from Bayern Munich played the same number of games and almost the same number of minutes, and each member of the top 10 of the FIFPRO list easily surpassed this limit. The medical consensus emphasizes the importance of rest periods and season breaks, recommending at least four weeks between seasons without obligations and a four-week re-acclimation period before starting competition.
Hakimi’s Season Schedule
Hakimi’s 2024-25 season started in Paris and included representing his country at the Olympic Games and ending with the World Cup. This meant his season lasted almost a whole year, with his off-season lasting only 22 days. The lack of adequate rest and recovery time can have long-term consequences on a player’s performance and overall health.
Future Games and Minutes
This season, Hakimi is expected to play in the African Cup of Nations and the 2026 World Cup, in addition to the Champions League knockout stages. This could result in him playing 74 games and almost 7,000 minutes. As Barcelona and France defender Jules Kounde noted, "People have to understand that we are not machines. In order to provide the desired level of play – intensive, competitive games – we also need time to rest."
Protective Measures for Young Players
Hakimi’s situation highlights the need for protective measures, especially for young players. The FIFPro report expresses concern over the lack of protection for young players, who are more susceptible to long-term risks due to constant competitive requirements. The number of minutes played by Moroccan players before the age of 21 has increased dramatically in recent years, with Hakimi playing over 10,000 minutes for club and country before turning 21.
Administration of Player Workload
The administration of player workloads will be crucial in managing their longevity in the game. Morocco has a talented pool of young footballers, but ensuring their workload is managed effectively will be essential in preventing burnout and injuries. The modern football calendar pushes players to their limit, and sometimes beyond, which can have severe consequences on their performance and health.
Hope for Change
As the legal dispute between FIFPRO and FIFA begins, there is hope for further measures to be taken to address the issue of player workload. If nothing changes soon, it will cost every stakeholder in football. The "beautiful game" remains at risk if player workloads are not managed better, and it is essential that steps are taken to protect the well-being of players like Hakimi.
