The Premier League has voiced strong opposition to FIFA’s expanded Club World Cup, set to take place this summer from June 15 to July 13, accusing the organization of overstepping boundaries.
The revamped competition, which will feature top clubs like Manchester City and Chelsea, has already faced legal challenges from player unions and domestic leagues due to its timing and impact on an already congested calendar.
Premier League Chief Football Officer Tony Scholes expressed frustration at FIFA’s decision, stating, “This is being imposed on us by FIFA. The calendar is already stretched to its limit, and we simply can’t delay the start of the Premier League season to accommodate it.”
Despite Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola’s appeal for a delayed start to the new season to allow players adequate recovery time, Scholes dismissed the idea.
“Why should we adjust our competition for a tournament we didn’t agree to?” he questioned. With players contractually entitled to three weeks off in the summer, the tight schedule could affect both City and Chelsea if they reach the final, as it falls just four weeks before the Premier League season begins on August 16.
Scholes also criticized UEFA for adding extra matches to European tournaments, such as the Champions League and Europa League.
He argued, “The calendar is already stretched to its breaking point. It’s gone too far.”
The Premier League’s concerns highlight growing tensions over the crowded football calendar and its impact on players and clubs alike.
