James Olley expressed his discontent regarding the current state of the Club World Cup during “The Football Reporters” podcast. His concerns were echoed by FIFA’s Global Football Development chief, Arsene Wenger, who admitted the quality of pitches used for the tournament in the U.S. fell short of the standards expected by European clubs. Wenger assured listeners that improvements will be made ahead of the co-hosted 2026 World Cup.
Wenger specifically pointed out that the playing conditions were not at par with what European teams are accustomed to. The turf has received criticism for its dryness, which requires frequent watering during breaks to maintain playability. “I’ve been personally on the pitch at Orlando,” Wenger commented, acknowledging its imperfections.
This issue has been highlighted by coaches such as Luis Enrique of Paris Saint-Germain. After his team’s substantial victory over Atlético Madrid, Enrique noted that the pitch conditions affected gameplay significantly. He remarked, “The ball bounces like a rabbit,” indicating the challenges posed by the pitch, which had recently switched from artificial turf to natural grass that isn’t properly maintained.
Enrique further emphasized the need for FIFA to address these concerns about pitch quality, stating that if the tournament is labeled as the best in the world, it should provide world-class facilities not only for matches but also for training. He compared the situation to a hypothetical NBA game being played on a poorly maintained court, reinforcing the urgency for FIFA to improve the playing conditions for such a prestigious tournament.
The concerns raised by both Wenger and Enrique spotlight the significance of pitch quality in professional sports, especially as the Club World Cup seeks to elevate its status globally. With the upcoming World Cup on the horizon, there is an opportunity for FIFA to enhance the playing experience for athletes and fans alike, setting a higher standard for future international tournaments.