The new Champions League format and the upcoming inaugural Club World Cup have put more pressure on professional players at the highest level, with an increase in games.
Spain international Rodri was asked if footballers could even force a strike. The Premier League star replied: “I think we are close to that […] If you ask any player he will say the same; it is not the opinion of Rodri or whatever. It’s the general opinion of the players.
"And if it keeps this way, there will be a moment where we have no other option. It’s something that worries us because we are the guys that suffer.”
Barcelona man Kounde has now concurred with the sentiment. The Frenchman was quizzed on the matter ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League opener against AS Monaco.
He said via GFFN: “I agree with everything that he (Rodri) said. The calendar gets bigger every year, more games, less rest,” began the France international.
He continued: “We have been saying it for three or four years. The protagonists, the players, we aren’t being heard. We will get to a point where we have to go on strike because the truth is that it is the only way to be heard.
The amount of games has been an increasing issue in football. For instance, Bayern Munich and England international Harry Kane has already played in over 50 matches this year, which amounts to over five matches every month. When you take into account the preparation and travel, as well as the lack of break, it all adds up.
This is the first time that players have touched on the possibility of striking, though. It would almost see federations and clubs react if they see their biggest players refusing to train or play in games.
The international calendar, friendlies, as well as the season in general all count towards the lethargy that footballers must be enduring and further stockpiling of fixtures must not continue or footballers will reach breaking point.
