Jurgen Klopp has strongly criticized the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, labeling it “the worst idea ever implemented in football.” His remarks come as live coverage of a match between Benfica and Chelsea unfolds at the 2025 tournament. Klopp, currently working with Red Bull, expressed concern over the impact of the congested football calendar on player development and health. He highlighted the excessive number of matches players face, noting how this contributes to increased injury risks and limited recovery time.
In an interview with German outlet Welt, Klopp remarked on the challenges players endure, stating, “Last year we had the Copa America and European Championship, this year the Club World Cup and next year then the World Cup.” He emphasized that this relentless schedule leaves little room for genuine recovery, contrasting it with the ample breaks enjoyed by NBA players.
Despite Klopp’s reservations, Red Bull Salzburg, who participated in this year’s Club World Cup but were eliminated in the group stage, reflected positively on their experience, labeling it an “unforgettable journey” on social media.
Pep Guardiola took a different stance, viewing participation in the Club World Cup as a privilege. He remarked on the importance of the tournament for teams from outside Europe, appreciating the cultural experiences it provides. Guardiola expressed his enthusiasm for engaging with these teams, emphasizing the vibrancy they bring to the competition.
The Club World Cup commenced on June 14 and will run until July 13, as the football world anticipates the start of the new Premier League season on August 15. Additionally, FIFPro has urged the introduction of a mandatory four-week off-season break to mitigate the demanding schedules that elite players face and ease the congested calendar further.
This backdrop of mounting concerns regarding player welfare, alongside contrasting views on the value of the Club World Cup, highlights a critical dialogue around the future of international tournaments in football. As the tournament continues, the importance of balancing competition and player health remains at the forefront of discussions in the sport.