Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany and Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso joined the growing call for action on player workload amid strike discussions. Kompany proposed a cap on the number of matches a player can play each year, while Alonso stressed the need for greater player involvement in fixture scheduling decisions.
Concerns over player fatigue have escalated as match schedules continue to grow. The Champions League has added fixtures, and FIFA’s expanded 32-team Club World Cup is scheduled for this summer, typically a rest period for players. Top clubs could face up to 75 games this season.
Ahead of Bayern’s match against Werder Bremen, Kompany noted that workload concerns had been an issue during his playing career. He argued it was unrealistic for players to handle up to 80 games a season, advocating for limits on games and mandatory rest periods.
Alonso, before Leverkusen’s clash with Wolfsburg, echoed those concerns, urging for player input to maintain quality football, given the packed schedule.
Kompany, a former FIFPro player union member, reiterated that capping games would benefit players and reduce club pressure, allowing exceptions for finals. He also hinted at squad rotations to handle Bayern’s busy schedule and shared optimism about goalkeeper Manuel Neuer’s fitness after an injury scare.
