Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has vehemently criticized the expanded Club World Cup, labeling it “the worst idea ever implemented in football” due to serious concerns over player welfare.
Now head of global soccer for Red Bull, Klopp’s comments come as players and unions increasingly voice alarm over a congested fixture calendar.
Speaking to Welt am Sonntag, Klopp, whose Red Bull Salzburg participated in this summer’s 32-team tournament, highlighted the relentless schedule.
“Last year it was the Copa [America] and the European Championship, this year it’s the Club World Cup, and next year the World Cup. That means no real recovery for the players involved, neither physically nor mentally,” he stated.
He fears an increase in player injuries, a sentiment echoed by FIFPRO, the global players’ union, which advocates for a four-week off-season break.
Manchester City’s Rodri even hinted at a player strike over the issue.
