Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 12, 2024 10:47 am GMT
As the Champions League returns, Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker speaks out about a pressing concern in the world of football: the increasing burden of fixture congestion on players. With a growing schedule and minimal evaluations of player feedback, Alisson emphasizes the urgent need for change within the sport, a sentiment echoed by others in the football community.
Players Feel Overlooked
In a candid statement, Alisson highlighted a crucial issue: “Sometimes nobody asks the players what they think about adding more games.” His comments come as Liverpool prepares to compete against AC Milan in the Champions League, a tournament that has expanded this season. It now includes a new eight-game league phase, potentially increasing the overall match count for clubs.
As clubs face a busy schedule, Alisson pointed out the exhaustion that comes with it: “Everybody’s tired of that.” Last season alone, Liverpool participated in 58 matches across all competitions, a workload that placed immense pressure on players. If Liverpool reaches the final in every competition this season, they could play up to 65 matches, not counting potential replays in domestic cups.
The Impact of Fixture Congestion
Many players and coaches are increasingly voicing their concerns regarding fixture congestion. The relentless schedule leaves little room for rest and recovery, which is vital for performing at a high level.
- Last Season’s Matches: Liverpool played 58 matches.
- This Season’s Potential: Up to 65 matches possible for Liverpool.
- Player Fatigue: “If you are tired you cannot compete at a high level,” Alisson noted.
Teams are under pressure not just from their upcoming matches but also from broadcasting contracts and sponsorship deals that prioritize more games for viewers. Alisson remarked, “We understand that people want more games,” recognizing the various stakeholders involved, from the media to football organizations such as UEFA and FIFA.
Responses from the Football Community
Alisson’s frustration is not isolated. Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp has been vocal about his opposition to the congested fixture calendar for years. His remarks echo a broader consensus among players and coaches who feel their input is overlooked by decision-makers in the sport.
Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji recently joked about retiring early due to the grueling schedule. He said, “I may have to retire at 30,” reflecting the heightened stress players experience within shorter recovery windows.
A Call for Collaboration
Alisson stressed the importance of bringing all parties to the table to discuss scheduling. “It would be reasonable for all sides, including the players, to sit together and listen to all the parts,” he said. His call for collaboration underscores the need for a balanced approach to scheduling that prioritizes player welfare without sacrificing the excitement of football.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot commented on the new Champions League format as well, stating, “How is it going to be with two extra games for the players? That’s something we have to find out.” This highlights the ongoing uncertainties athletes face under these expanding schedules.
The Path Forward
As the football landscape evolves, finding a solution that satisfies both players’ health and the demands of the sport remains a challenge. Some potential approaches to alleviating fixture congestion include:
- Reviewing the Competition Format: Assessing the necessity of each tournament and possible adjustments.
- Increasing Recovery Time: Implementing better rest periods between matches.
- Involving Players in Discussions: Actively seeking player input when planning schedules.
While the future continues to unfold, players like Alisson are adamant that action must be taken soon to ensure their voices are heard.
Conclusion
Alisson Becker has talked about an important problem in professional football: the heavy workload and the health of players. As Liverpool gets ready to play against AC Milan, we can see that there’s a lot more going on than just the game itself. Everyone involved in football needs to come together to figure out a better schedule that takes care of both the sport we love and the players who work so hard to make it great.
