Tottenham's coach and captain both agreed that football nowadays is not about the quality but the quantity of games.
Tottenham Hotspur’s head coach, Ange Postecoglou, and captain Son Heung-min have raised serious concerns regarding the increasing congestion of the football calendar, emphasising the risks it poses to player health and performance.
With Spurs set to kick off their Europa League campaign against Qarabag, both figures are calling for urgent attention to the issue as the number of games in top competitions continues to rise.
The initial phase of the Europa League has expanded from six to eight games, mirroring similar changes in the Champions League.
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This escalation in fixtures is becoming a growing worry for players, who are already facing packed schedules filled with domestic and international commitments. Postecoglou highlighted the perilous situation, stating, “We’re reaching a dangerous level regarding player expectations. Instead of focusing on one or two tournaments, we must examine the overall calendar.”
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Son echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the physical and mental toll of constant match play. He pointed out the strain on players, particularly those like him who travel internationally for national team duties. “We love playing football, but we’re not robots,” Son stated. “The risk of injury is massive, especially with the relentless schedule. It’s crucial that we find a balance to ensure the best players are available for every match.”
The players' concerns align with broader discussions in football about player welfare. Manchester City’s Rodri recently suggested that players might consider collective action, including a strike, in response to burnout fears.
Postecoglou supported this idea, acknowledging the growing frustration among players. “They’re the ones most affected, and it’s understandable if they start to advocate for change,” he remarked.
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Both Postecoglou and Son are calling for stakeholders in football—clubs, leagues, and governing bodies—to address the issue of fixture congestion urgently.
They argue that prioritising the quality of matches over quantity is essential to maintaining the integrity of the sport. “We want to see high-quality games with top players, not a constant battle against injuries and fatigue,” Son concluded.