BARCELONA (Azat TV) – Barcelona president Joan Laporta has voiced strong criticism regarding the international football calendar, particularly after winger Raphinha sustained an injury during a friendly match. Laporta directed his ire towards FIFA, suggesting the organization must reconsider its schedule to better protect players representing major clubs.
Laporta Blasts FIFA Schedule Congestion
“Raphinha’s injury is a shame,” Laporta stated in comments to Mon Esport. “FIFA must make their calendar considering that these players play for big clubs.” The Barcelona president highlighted the irony of a key player suffering an injury during a non-competitive fixture, calling it “annoying” and “infuriating.” He emphasized that players are professionals committed to their national teams, but the core issue lies with the sheer volume of matches played at critical junctures of the club season.
Player Welfare Amidst Packed Schedule
The injury to Raphinha, a significant player for Barcelona, comes at a particularly sensitive time for the club, as they are competing for crucial titles. Laporta underscored that this situation is not about player commitment but about the sustainability of the current football calendar. “You can’t blame the players. They are professionals and they give their all for their country,” he explained. “The problem is the crowded schedule, in the time of the season where we are playing for everything.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern among top European clubs about the physical toll international breaks and the expanded FIFA calendar place on their squads.
Call for Calendar Reform
Laporta’s remarks add to an ongoing debate within the football world about the balance between national team commitments and club responsibilities, especially in light of player safety and well-being. The president’s frustration points to a perceived lack of consideration from FIFA regarding the demands placed on elite footballers, whose value and performance are critical to their respective clubs.
Laporta’s outspoken criticism of FIFA’s scheduling, amplified by a high-profile player injury, signals a potential escalation in the long-standing tension between international football governing bodies and major European clubs over calendar management and player welfare.