FIFA is facing a looming legal action from the global players’ union, Fifpro, and the World Leagues Association, including the Premier League, over plans for a 32-team Club World Cup at the end of the upcoming season.
The unions argue that the football calendar is overstretched, leading to challenges in organizing national leagues and increased injury risks for players.
The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) had previously sought legal advice concerning the lack of consultation on the congested calendar’s impact on its members.
Next season, all three European club competitions will expand to 36 teams, potentially requiring clubs to play up to 17 matches to secure victory.
Fifpro and the World Leagues Association have addressed a letter to FIFA president Gianni Infantino and general secretary Mattias Grafstrom, asserting that adjustments to FIFA competitions should not burden national leagues and players.
They argue that such imposition jeopardizes leagues and player welfare. However, FIFA contends that its scheduling considers player welfare.
