October 9 – France and Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate (pictured) has become the latest player to speak out against the packed fixture schedule, saying he supports the right to strike.
Players and managers have criticised the ever-expanding calendar, with Manchester City midfielder Rodri warning last month that footballers were ready to down tools in protest if the situation did not improve.
Rodri, star of Spain’s Euro-winning campaign last summer, was recently ruled out for months with a serious injury, bearing witness to the problem.
The issue is gaining traction and now Konaté has thrown his weight behind a growing movement citing health concerns as a result of a gruelling fixture list and a demanding turnaround.
“If this current climate persists and players decide to take a stand, then we are all in this together,” said the 25-year-old defender.
FIFPRO, the global players’ union, is about to challenge FIFA’s international match timetable with a complaint to European Union antitrust regulators.
Some reports suggest clubs are hesitant to release players for international duty, citing injury concerns as a major factor. “This matter deserves serious attention,” said Konate.
“Clubs often prefer their players stay back from international commitments, but we must acknowledge the sheer volume of matches. While players are contracted to clubs, we cannot overlook the significance of international football.”
“If tomorrow there’s a movement that will lead to understanding, I’ll be part of it. And I think all the players will follow suit.”
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