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Concerns Over Scheduling in International Football: Insights from Harry Kane
England’s captain, Harry Kane, has expressed concerns regarding player input in the scheduling of football matches. He highlighted a disconnect, stating that players’ perspectives are often overlooked when it comes to organizing fixtures.
The upcoming international window is scheduled for June 2 to June 10, shortly after the Premier League concludes on May 25 and the Champions League final takes place on May 31. This scheduling presents potential challenges for many players.
Additionally, Kane’s club, Bayern Munich, will be participating in the newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup from June 15 to July 13. This extensive commitment means that Kane could face a summer with little to no significant rest.
Despite these challenges, the 31-year-old striker remains committed to playing actively as he aims for more titles. “I don’t believe players are given much attention regarding their scheduling concerns,” Kane stated candidly. “However, everyone is eager for their respective tournaments and prizes, leaving players to adapt to the demands.”
While acknowledging these stresses, Kane expressed his passion for the game, saying, “I enjoy playing football, so I won’t complain about it.” He also noted the importance of managing one’s workload effectively, advising collaboration with coaches and clubs to find opportunities for rest when possible.
He recognized the complexity of the situation, admitting, “It’s not an easy issue to navigate. Ideally, there should be a balanced approach from all parties involved, but it’s uncertain how that will unfold.”
Kane’s sentiments resonate with those of other players in the league. Liverpool’s goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, previously voiced similar frustrations about congested schedules. Meanwhile, Manchester City’s defender, Manuel Akanji, mentioned that he might consider retirement due to the demands of the fixture list as he approaches his next birthday.
The Professional Footballers’ Association has also taken a proactive stance by joining legal proceedings against FIFA last summer, protesting against what they describe as an “overloaded and unworkable” football calendar. This indicates a growing concern among players regarding the sustainability of their schedules and well-being amid an increasingly demanding sport.
Source
www.bbc.com