Footballers are being pushed to breaking point by congested schedules and rising heat, according to a new FIFPRO report on the 2024–25 season.
The global players’ union highlighted the 32-team Club World Cup in the U.S. as a major strain, with stars like Achraf Hakimi enduring seasons that stretched nearly year-round. Clubs including PSG, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich had their offseasons cut short, raising fears for player fitness heading into the 2026 World Cup.
Medical experts cited in the report call for at least four weeks between seasons and a minimum two days’ rest between matches.
«You’ve got the perfect storm of how not to treat a human,» said Dr. Darren Burgess, warning of rising injuries and declining performances.
Heat was also flagged as an escalating threat. During the Club World Cup, four matches exceeded 28°C, conditions under which games should have been cancelled under FIFPRO guidelines. Six of the 16 World Cup host cities are classified as facing «extreme risk» for heat-related illness.
FIFPRO is currently pursuing legal action against FIFA over fixture congestion, urging urgent reforms. With the expanded 48-team, 104-game World Cup just months away, the union warns that without stronger safeguards, player health, and the quality of the tournament, could be at serious risk.
More sport news here
