The European Leagues organization has announced plans to lodge a complaint with the European Commission due to FIFA’s ongoing expansion of global competitions. Pep Guardiola has consistently criticized the tournament schedules, which he believes leave players “exhausted.”
FIFA has already increased the World Cup from 32 to 48 teams and introduced a new 32-team Club World Cup, set to be held every four years starting next year.
In response, FIFA has proposed conciliatory talks with the World Leagues Association and FIFPro, seemingly aiming to avoid potential legal action. According to the Associated Press, FIFA stated: “Our offer to engage in dialogue remains on the table. FIFA believes there is a more productive way forward for football than the threat of legal action.”
FIFA also asserts that it “serves and balances the overall interests of world football, including the protection of players.”
While FIFA’s plans for the 2026 World Cup and the new Club World Cup are already confirmed, it remains uncertain whether legal action will ultimately be pursued.
