'It's too much' | Pro footballers could strike over rising workload concerns

Concerns over the mounting number of games top footballers are required to play have escalated, with Manchester City midfielder Rodri warning that players would go on strike, insisting “we need to rest” to perform better.

Speaking ahead of the club’s UEFA Champions League opener against Inter Milan, which ended 0-0, Rodri expressed the growing frustration among players over their increasing workload, expressing concerns that translate to everyday workforces, including burnout and its impact on performance and wellbeing.

The expansion of competitions like the Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup, along with more extensive national team tournaments, has placed greater demands on players, leading to concerns about their wellbeing and ability to perform at their best. Rodri is the latest in a series of high-profile players to speak out on the issue.

Knowledge Portal

Someone like you needs a rest | Adele's 'incredibly long' break - a call for HR to embrace sabbaticals

"I think we're close to that (striking)," Rodri said to reporters. "It's the general opinion of the players, and if it keeps this way, we'll have no other option. I really think it's something that worries us. We are the guys who suffer."