Enzo Maresca Raises Concerns Over Player Fatigue and Potential Strikes Amid Fixture Overload
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has expressed concerns that football is edging closer to players taking strike action due to the overwhelming number of matches they are required to play.
His comments come after Manchester City midfielder Rodri suggested that players may be forced to go on strike if the fixture congestion continues unchecked.
Maresca emphasized that the issue lies with the players, stating, “Players are playing too many games. I don’t think we protect players.
The only ones who can do something are the players, and we can help them.” He added that while coaches and pundits can voice their opinions, the power to initiate change lies with the players themselves.
Rodri had voiced similar sentiments earlier in the week, noting that players can only perform at their best for 40 to 50 games per season. “After that, you drop because it is impossible to sustain the physical level.
It’s too much,” Rodri remarked, stressing that player welfare and the quality of football are being compromised by the excessive match schedules.
While Maresca stopped short of advocating for strike action, he acknowledged the growing frustration among players, leaving the possibility open that strike action could be “near” if changes are not made soon.
Despite the strain, Maresca pointed out that most players still want to play in every game, even as their workloads increase.
Enzo Maresca Raises Concerns Over Player Fatigue and Potential Strikes Amid Fixture Overload
