Football is at a breaking point. If anyone doubts that, they need only look to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. Should everything go according to plan for the Norwegian forward, his 2024-25 campaign will last a staggering 354 days. Yes, that’s nearly an entire year of high-intensity football, leaving little room for recovery and posing serious questions about the physical and mental toll on players.
The Marathon Season
The upcoming season is set to be the longest and most physically demanding in football history. Players like Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Jude Bellingham could each find themselves playing over 70 games between now and the official end of the season, marked by the FIFA Club World Cup final on July 13, 2025.
For Haaland, the marathon has already begun. The 24-year-old took to the pitch for Manchester City in a pre-season friendly against Celtic on July 24, 2024, in the United States. Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s Mbappé and Bellingham, who featured prominently in Euro 2024 for France and England respectively, are yet to kick off their seasons due to a delayed summer break.
But even this short respite may not be enough. With club commitments, international duties, and an ever-expanding calendar, the game’s biggest stars are being pushed to their limits.
The Physical Toll
Football has always been a physically demanding sport, but the modern game has taken this to new heights. With more games, more competitions, and higher stakes, players are expected to maintain peak physical condition year-round. The relentless schedule offers little time for recovery, increasing the risk of injuries and long-term damage.
Haaland, who has struggled with injuries in the past, represents a growing concern. As clubs and governing bodies continue to prioritize commercial interests, the well-being of players is often overlooked. The introduction of new tournaments and expanded formats, such as the revamped FIFA Club World Cup, only adds to the burden.
Mental Fatigue and Burnout
The physical demands of the game are compounded by the mental strain. The pressure to perform at the highest level, the constant travel, and the lack of downtime can lead to burnout. For young stars like Haaland, Mbappé, and Bellingham, who are expected to carry their clubs and national teams, the weight of expectation is immense.
Mental fatigue can be just as debilitating as physical injuries. It can lead to dips in form, loss of confidence, and in some cases, depression. The increasing awareness of mental health in sports has highlighted the need for better support systems for players. However, the unrelenting schedule leaves little room for rest and recuperation.
A Breaking Point
Football is at a crossroads. The sport’s governing bodies, clubs, and stakeholders must address the growing concerns about player welfare. The current trajectory is unsustainable. The risk of burnout, both physical and mental, is real and could have long-lasting effects on the careers of the game’s brightest talents.
For Haaland, Mbappé, and Bellingham, the 2024-25 season could be a defining moment. It’s a test of endurance, resilience, and the human body’s limits. But at what cost?
As fans, we marvel at the skill, dedication, and passion these players bring to the game. But we must also recognize the toll it takes. Football needs to find a balance between the demands of the modern game and the well-being of those who make it possible. Otherwise, the beautiful game risks losing its most valuable assets.
The 2024-25 season will undoubtedly be one for the history books, but it could also serve as a wake-up call. The question is, will football listen?