“He keeps looking for new sources of income, at the expense of the health of players,” says Sergio Marchi, chairman of the FIFPRO. “It looks like the tactics of ‘bread and games’ that Emperor Nero once used in Rome. It is entertainment for the masses, but there is little protection for footballers anymore.”
New rules in sight: Footballers must get 72 hours of rest between duels
“We have been warning for the full calendar for some time and the lack of physical and mental peace for the players,” continues Marchi. “FIFA does not want to talk to us about this. Organizing this way of tournaments, without listening to trade unions, is authoritarian and only based on making as much profit as possible.”
Incomprehension towards Gianni Infantino
The FIFPRO does not understand why Infantino regards the World Cup for clubs as a great success. Many top players have not had no vacation for almost a year. Moreover, it has been extremely hot in recent weeks during some competitions.
“This tournament is held under unacceptable circumstances,” says Marchi, among other things referring to the incident with Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni, who became dizzy by the heat during the match against Bayern Munich. “In such extreme heat, no duels may be organized at the World Cup next year. The health of players has already been sufficiently jeopardized. What happened at this World Cup should not be repeated under the World Cup of next year.”