Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji has voiced concerns about the increasing demands on players due to an expanding fixture schedule, highlighting the potential physical toll it could take on the squad.
In a candid interview, Akanji addressed the issue of a congested football calendar, stating that the situation is becoming more complicated and physically taxing for players. “It’s just got bigger, more games,” Akanji said, referring to the increasing number of fixtures in competitions like the UEFA Champions League. “It was six [group stage games], it can go to 10 [in the league phase]. If you’re going to do this, you need to take some games away – you can’t just keep adding game after game and assume everything will be like it was.”
He stressed that clubs need to prioritize player welfare, especially as they strive to field their strongest squads in key matches. Akanji warned of the consequences of overloading players, pointing to injuries as an inevitable result of physical fatigue. “We train as hard as possible and we’re fit – but there has to be a limit!”
The defender also expressed concerns about the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup at the end of the season. “It’s just game after game, and I don’t know how it will work out over the next couple of years,” he said. He painted a picture of relentless matches that could stretch across the summer, leaving little time for players to rest. “Let’s say we win the Premier League or FA Cup, then go to the final of the Club World Cup, the Community Shield is three weeks after. So when do we have holidays?”
He also commented on the impressive form of teammate Erling Haaland, who has once again made an explosive start to the season. “It’s hard to say if this season is an improved Erling as he’s been scoring so many goals since he joined Man City, but I think he’s more involved in the game. He’s holding up the ball really well.” Haaland has already netted nine goals in just four Premier League matches, proving to be an essential force in City’s attack.
In addition to the discussions on fixtures and individual performances, Akanji emphasized the tight-knit bond within the Manchester City squad. “I mean, that’s what a team is for, we stick together and try to help each other out,” he said, referencing a recent moment where the team rallied around Haaland. “It’s not just the team-mates, it’s the whole club!”
Akanji’s comments however reflects the broader conversation surrounding fixture congestion in modern football, where balancing success and player well-being remains a growing challenge.
