Barcelona winger Raphinha has openly criticized FIFA's scheduling of the expanded Club World Cup, joining a growing chorus of concerns regarding player welfare. The Brazilian international voiced his frustration about the lack of consultation with players regarding the tournament's timing and demands, which force them to compete without adequate rest during their vacation period.
Speaking at a promotional event in Brazil, Raphinha lamented the obligation to sacrifice holidays for the tournament. "It's very bad to have to give up your holidays to play in something you're obliged to, because at no point were we asked about anything," the 28-year-old stated. He emphasized that players deserve sufficient time off after a grueling season, highlighting the physical and mental toll of continuous competition. "Being forced to give up our holidays is very difficult because it's our right. Everyone agrees that we all deserve at least a month off, or at least three weeks. And many of those playing in the World Cup aren't even going to get a month," he added.
Raphinha used his Brazilian teammates Marquinhos and Beraldo, both of Paris Saint-Germain, as examples to illustrate the strain on players who transition from club to national team duties and then to the Club World Cup without respite. "They came to the national team and then went to the World Cup. And they still haven't stopped," he noted. He also pointed out that if PSG were to reach the Club World Cup final, they would immediately have to compete in the Super Cup, exacerbating the issue of insufficient rest.
The expanded Club World Cup, featuring 32 teams, is being held during the European summer break and has sparked widespread concern among players and coaches. The tournament started on June 14 and will run until July 13, following the end of the European league season in late May and an international window in early June. Most major European leagues are scheduled to resume in mid to late August, with pre-seasons commencing in early August, leaving players with minimal time off.
Raphinha's criticism underscores a growing debate within professional football regarding fixture congestion and its impact on athletes. Head coaches, including Pep Guardiola, have previously voiced concerns about the high injury rate resulting from the intense schedule. Raphinha's remarks highlight the players' perspective on the importance of vacation time as a "right" rather than a luxury, emphasizing their need for personal time away from the demands of professional football.
The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is the 21st edition of the tournament and the first with the expanded format, featuring 32 teams instead of the previous 7. The tournament is taking place in the United States from June 14 to July 13, 2025. The teams are divided into eight groups of four, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout stage. While the tournament has captured global attention, it has also faced criticism regarding field conditions and weather, in addition to concerns about player welfare.
