Elite football players have been voicing their frustrations over the increasing number of games and inadequate rest period within the sport. With the implementation of UEFA's club competitions and FIFA's upcoming Club World Cup, concerns over player burnout have reached a critical point. The season is set to become the longest ever due to the scheduled four-week Club World Cup in the United States in June and July, as reported by ESPN in August. Prominent players like Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Jude Bellingham have highlighted the demanding fixture list, with Manchester City's Rodri recently becoming the first to suggest the possibility of player strike action.

Notable figures in the football world, including Thibaut Courtois, Alisson Becker, Jules Koundé, and John McGinn, have echoed concerns about player workload and the potential need for unprecedented action. Managers such as Pep Guardiola, Mikel Arteta, Jurgen Klopp, and Carlo Ancelotti have also expressed worries about player exhaustion. The issue has escalated with leading figures discussing the prospect of strike action as players grapple with a packed schedule that includes international commitments, extensive club competitions, and additional fixtures like the Club World Cup. The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) of England emphasized that industrial action could not be ruled out if player concerns remain unaddressed.

The governing body FIFPRO and players' unions have taken legal action against FIFA to challenge the expansion of the Club World Cup and the overloaded football calendar. Concerns have been raised about the impact on players' well-being and the lack of rest periods necessary for optimal performance. The potential legal battle against FIFA seeks to address the issues of excessive match schedules, the need for limits on games per season, and the requirement for mandatory rest periods. Despite the current focus on legal proceedings, the possibility of a player strike looms in the background should FIFA fail to address the players' concerns. The situation highlights the power dynamics within football and the need for a balanced approach to scheduling to ensure the well-being of players across all levels of the game.