Manchester City midfielder Rodri has suggested that players may be forced to go on strike due to the ever-tightening schedules and increasing number of fixtures that leave little room for rest throughout the season.
City face Inter Milan on Wednesday in the Champions League, where a new format adds at least two extra games before the knockout stage. Additionally, the Club World Cup—now expanded to 32 teams—is set to take place next summer, further piling on the games for top clubs like City.
Rodri expressed his frustration, saying, “I think we are close to that,” when asked about a potential player strike.
“If it keeps this way, it will be a moment that we have no other option, but let’s see.”
The new formats mean Manchester City will play at least four extra matches compared to last season’s schedule. Previously, they played just two games to secure the Club World Cup title in December, but under the new system, they would need to play three group games and up to four knockout matches to win the trophy.
City’s congested schedule has become a growing concern for players, with Rodri echoing sentiments shared by others, including Premier League star Alisson Becker. The Liverpool goalkeeper has also criticised football’s governing bodies for ignoring players’ concerns about fixture congestion, warning of the physical and mental toll it could take on athletes.
Across the past two full seasons, Manchester City have played a staggering 120 matches in all competitions, and the upcoming formats show no signs of slowing down.
