Kylian Mbappe, LaLiga president accuse FIFA of destroying football ecosystem

A players' union, the European leagues' group, and Spain's LaLiga have jointly filed a complaint against FIFA over the abuse of schedule. The bodies have accused FIFA of abusing the schedule.

In Short

• Players' union and LaLiga file complaint against FIFA.
• Kylian Mbappe alleges of abuse over international match schedule
• Concerns have been raised over player fatigue and injuries

A players' union, the European leagues' group, and Spain's LaLiga have jointly filed a complaint against FIFA, alleging "abuse" regarding the governing body's international match schedule. The complaint was submitted to European Union antitrust regulators amid growing concerns over player well-being, with many athletes facing fatigue, injuries, and mental strain despite their substantial salaries.

The complaint asserts that FIFA's control over the international calendar constitutes an abuse of dominance and violates EU law, according to FIFPRO Europe, European Leagues, and LaLiga in a joint statement.

The European Leagues, an association that includes major leagues like the Premier League, Bundesliga, Serie A, and Ligue 1—excluding LaLiga—has voiced specific concerns about the revamped Club World Cup set to take place next year. The tournament will expand from seven to 32 clubs and is scheduled for nearly a month in the U.S., potentially disrupting clubs' pre-season tours aimed at enhancing global fan engagement.

Premier League CEO Richard Masters expressed that the situation has reached a "tipping point," emphasising feedback from players who feel overwhelmed by the excessive number of matches.

LaLiga President Javier Tebas criticised FIFA for prioritizing its own interests while disregarding the broader impact on the football ecosystem.

In a video statement during a news conference held by the three organisations, French captain Kylian Mbappe echoed these sentiments, stating, "When it's too much, it's too much."

FIFA, however, maintains that the international calendar was established with input from representatives across all continents, including Europe, and in consultation with FIFPRO and various leagues.

In addition to the expanded Club World Cup, the upcoming World Cup will also grow from 32 to 48 nations. UEFA has similarly adjusted its schedule with a new Champions League format but has not been included in the current complaint, as FIFA is seen as responsible for the international calendar. Mathieu Moreuil, Premier League director of international football relations and EU affairs, noted that relations with UEFA are different due to ongoing dialogue.

Earlier on Monday, FIFA announced it would begin negotiations with stakeholders regarding the transfer system after the EU deemed parts of it unlawful. The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) recently ruled that FIFA's regulations requiring compensation for players who terminate contracts without just cause are unlawful, suggesting a significant overhaul may be forthcoming.