Rodri Warns of Possible Player Strike Amid Rising Match Demands in Elite Football

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has sounded the alarm about the growing strain top-level football players are facing.

The Spanish international warned that they are nearing the point of striking due to the increasing number of games they are required to play.

The Spanish international shared his concerns during a news conference, addressing the packed schedule players must endure as major competitions like the Champions League pile on more matches.

Rodri explained that the situation is becoming unbearable for many players, who are struggling to cope with the excessive game load.

When asked whether players might soon refuse to play because of the relentless schedule, he said, "I think we are close to that. You ask any player, he will say the same — it's not the opinion of (just) Rodri or whoever. I think it's a general opinion of the players. If it keeps this way, it will be a moment when we have no other option. It's something that worries us because we are the guys who suffer."

Rodri is preparing for his first start of the season for Manchester City, following an extended break after his European Championship victory with Spain in July.

As City opens its Champions League campaign against Inter Milan, Rodri highlights the unrelenting schedule elite players face.

On top of the Champions League, City could be looking at several more matches in the Club World Cup, which will take place at the end of the domestic season in the United States.

FIFA's recent introduction of a 32-team Club World Cup, set to be held every four years, and the 48-team World Cup for men in 2026 has added further strain.

The global players' union FIFPRO has taken legal action against FIFA's expansion of these competitions, arguing that the increased match count is being forced upon players without their consultation or consent.

Rodri voiced concerns about players' ability to maintain top performance levels, stating that players can handle between 40 to 50 games a season but not the 60 to 70 matches now expected.

Last season, City players like Julian Alvarez and Phil Foden were constantly in action, with Alvarez selected in 83 match-day squads and Foden playing 72 matches.

"In my humble opinion, I think it is too much," Rodri added. "We have to take care of ourselves. Someone has to take care of ourselves because we are the main characters of this sport or this business."

Rodri stressed that the issue extends beyond money and marketing.

It's about maintaining the quality of the sport.

He believes that adequate rest leads to better performance, stating, "If people want to see better football, we need to rest." He pointed to his teammate, Erling Haaland, as proof of how proper rest can elevate a player's game.

Haaland, who had the summer off after Norway missed out on Euro 2024, has already scored nine goals in City's first four games this season.

Rodri's call for change is a reflection of mounting concerns from players across the world, who may soon take drastic measures if the issue isn't addressed.