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Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou has voiced concerns over the increasing demands placed on football players due to the expanding fixture schedule, warning that it has reached a “dangerous level.” Spurs are set to host Qarabag in the first of eight Europa League group phase matches, part of the tournament’s newly extended format.
Teams in the competition could face up to 16 matches to reach the final in Bilbao on 21 May 2025, exacerbating an already congested fixture list. Manchester City midfielder Rodri recently suggested that players might consider striking over fixture congestion, a remark made shortly before he sustained a serious knee injury.
“I think we’re getting to a dangerous level of what our expectations are around players,” said Postecoglou on Wednesday. “They don’t get a break between seasons anymore.”
He stressed the risk of losing top talent to injuries due to the relentless schedule, adding, “We’re not going to have the best players out here playing and even worse, probably breaking down for various reasons.”
As Tottenham embarks on their European journey, they are set to face a demanding schedule, including matches against Ferencvaros, AZ Alkmaar, and Galatasaray in the coming weeks. Spurs have previously played Qarabag in European competition, winning both encounters during the 2015-16 Europa League group stage.
