Introduction to Player Workload
The International Football Player Union, Fifpro, has released a report detailing the number of games played by football players. The report highlights the extreme physical stress experienced by players, particularly those who participate in multiple tournaments and competitions throughout the year. One such player is Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi, who played 69 games and accumulated 6,371 minutes last season.
The Risks of Overplaying
Hakimi’s workload increased significantly compared to the previous season, when he played 53 games and 4,869 minutes. The medical consensus suggests that players should be guaranteed at least four weeks of rest between seasons and a retraining period of at least four weeks before starting competitions. However, this is often not the case, with many players exceeding the recommended limit of 55 games per season. Hakimi’s situation is not unique, as other top players, such as Joshua Kimmich from Bayern Munich, also played a similar number of games and minutes.
The Impact of the Football Calendar
Hakimi’s 2024-25 season started in July and ended in July the following year, with only 22 days of rest in between. This grueling schedule took a toll on his physical health, and he is expected to play even more games this season. The football calendar is becoming increasingly demanding, with players required to participate in multiple tournaments and competitions throughout the year. This can lead to burnout, injuries, and a decline in performance.
The Need for Protective Measures
The FIFPro report highlights the need for protective measures to prevent player burnout and ensure their long-term health and well-being. Young players, in particular, are at risk due to the constant competitive requirements and lack of rest. The report notes that the number of minutes played by Moroccan players before the age of 21 has increased dramatically in recent years. For example, Hakimi played over 10,000 minutes before turning 21, while his national team colleague, Hakim Ziyech, played only 3,000 minutes before reaching the same age.
The Consequences of Overplaying
If players are not managed better, it can have serious consequences for their health and well-being. Overplaying can lead to injuries, burnout, and a decline in performance. It can also have financial implications for clubs and stakeholders, as injured players may require costly medical treatment and rehabilitation. Furthermore, the loss of top players due to burnout or injury can have a significant impact on the sport as a whole, affecting the quality of the game and the fans’ experience.
Hope for Change
FIFPro has started legal proceedings against FIFA to address the issue of player workload and the football calendar. The union is advocating for better protection for players and a more sustainable schedule that allows for adequate rest and recovery time. If successful, this could lead to significant changes in the way players are managed and the football calendar is structured. This would be a positive step towards ensuring the long-term health and well-being of football players and the sport as a whole.
