As the soccer world has turned its attention to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, one star watching from the sidelines has spoken out—with frustration and a message that has sparked a wider conversation. Barcelona winger Raphinha has voiced his discontent over the increasing demands placed on professional players, particularly in light of a congested summer schedule.
Barcelona, notably absent from the tournament, can only watch as rivals like Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Flamengo compete on the global stage. But Raphinha’s pointed commentary may leave fans wondering whether the absence is a blessing in disguise.
In a candid interview with Brazilian media, Raphinha condemned FIFA’s expanded Club World Cup, calling it a burden on players rather than an opportunity. While he didn’t deny the prestige of the competition, he emphasized that the lack of rest between seasons is both unsustainable and unfair.
“You have to go and that’s it, because we follow orders, we have to be there playing,” he said. “Giving up our vacation by obligation is very complicated because it’s our right. Everyone deserves at least a month off, maybe three weeks. And many of those playing in the World Cup won’t even get a month.”
The 28-year-old then dropped a three-word comment that has rippled across soccer circles, capturing the collective mood of many players facing burnout from relentless scheduling.
Rising issue with the calendar
At the center of this controversy is the new Club World Cup format, which now features 32 teams and spans an entire month—from June 14 to July 13, 2025. This scheduling places it directly after a grueling European season and an early-June international break.
Players from clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich now find themselves with virtually no break between campaigns. And that, Raphinha argues, is dangerous—not just physically, but mentally. “Football is a job like any other, and we need breaks to recharge,” he said. “You can’t keep up this level of intensity without rest.”
The Barcelona attacker also cited examples of fellow Brazilians Marquinhos and Beraldo, who lifted the Champions League trophy with PSG, immediately joined the national team for June fixtures, and then flew straight to the U.S. for the Club World Cup. “They didn’t even get to celebrate properly. They haven’t stopped yet.”
