- Manchester City midfielder Rodri warns that players could go on strike due to the increased fixture congestion caused by the expanded Champions League
- Rodri emphasizes that the growing number of matches could harm player performance, urging football authorities to prioritize player well-being
Manchester City midfielder Rodri has warned that top footballers could go on strike if the demanding fixture schedule continues to expand.
Rodri’s comments come ahead of City’s first Champions League match against Inter Milan at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. This match marks the start of the new 36-team league phase of the tournament, a significant expansion from the original format, which only included reigning national champions.
At the end of the season, City will participate in an expanded Club World Cup in addition to the extended Champions League.
When asked if a strike was possible, Rodri responded, “Yes, I think we are close to that. If it remains this way, we will have no other option. It worries us.”
While Rodri expressed concern, City manager Pep Guardiola was more cautious. He noted, “We are in our first game, then the second, and we will see what happens in the last games. It is not necessary to look ahead now. We will see.”
Rodri’s remarks echoed Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson’s remarks, who criticized football authorities for ignoring players’ concerns over the congested schedule. Alisson stated, “Sometimes nobody asks the players what they think about adding more games. Everybody knows we’re tired of that.”
Both players highlight a growing concern among footballers regarding their physical well-being and the increasing demands of their profession.