Manchester City’s defensive midfielder, Rodri, has issued a strong warning about a potential footballers’ strike.
He believes players across Europe may consider this drastic measure if the problem of fixture congestion continues to worsen.
Rodri stated that footballers are prepared to refuse to play if the authorities keep increasing the number of games each season, leading to detrimental effects on player welfare.
He highlighted concerns following the revamped format of the UEFA Champions League, which now includes eight group-stage matches instead of six, and the expanded Club World Cup with 32 teams participating.
These changes could result in top European clubs like Manchester City facing a grueling schedule of over 70 games per season, which players fear will take a toll on their physical and mental well-being.
Asked if players could potentially stage a protest against the fixture scheduling by going on strike, the Spain International said via Mirror, “I think we’re close to that.
“It’s the general opinion of the players, and if it keeps this way, we’ll have no other option. I really think it’s something that worries us. We are the guys who suffer.
“From my experience, I can tell you that 60 or 70 games – no. Between 40 and 50 is the amount of games in which a player can perform at the highest level. After that, you drop because it’s impossible to sustain the physical level.”
