Raphinha, a forward for Barcelona, expressed his disappointment that players were not consulted regarding the extended season to accommodate the Club World Cup. He emphasized that no one should be compelled to forgo their vacation time.
The inaugural expanded Club World Cup is scheduled to commence in mid-June and conclude in mid-July. This tournament follows the conclusion of the European league season in late May and an international break in early June.
Raphinha highlighted the situation faced by players on European teams, stating that they would typically be on vacation. He cited the example of Marquinhos and Beraldo from Paris St Germain, who, after winning the Champions League, immediately transitioned to the national team and then the Club World Cup, without a proper break.
He acknowledged that some might view this as an excuse, but stressed the difficulty of being obligated to sacrifice vacation time. He believes that players are entitled to at least a month of rest, which many will not receive.
The major European leagues are set to resume in mid to late August, with pre-season training beginning earlier in the month. Raphinha pointed out that if PSG reaches the Club World Cup final, they will immediately participate in the Super Cup, illustrating the relentless schedule.
He reiterated his perspective that it is detrimental to forfeit vacation time for a tournament players are essentially forced to participate in. He emphasized that the players were not given a choice and that being compelled to give up vacation time for a new tournament is a significant challenge.
7 Comments
Fuerza
More and more games, shorter breaks. No one would be able to sustain a career doing this.
Manolo Noriega
I think he is over-reacting/complaining. It's a sport at the highest level, players should be able to cope with those things
Fuerza
If you’re playing at the top level, sacrifices are part of the job. The sport is just growing
Ongania
I agree, they are human and need rest at the end of the season. It goes against fair play!!
Fuerza
This is a one-off tournament, they'll get a bigger break next summer. Give it a rest, Raphinha.
Muchacho
He signed up to play, didn't he? Playing for Barcelona and on the world stage is itself a big deal, with all that comes with it.
ytkonos
Is he worried about the lack of rest more or the lack of say in the scheduling?