Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has thrown his support behind Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who recently raised concerns over football’s congested fixture list.
Rodri hinted at the possibility of players taking strike action, saying they are being pushed to the brink by the sheer number of matches in the season.
Speaking in a press conference, Rodri said, “If it keeps this way, there will be a moment where we have no other option,” referring to the intense fixture load that top players are facing. Both Manchester City and Real Madrid are competing in UEFA’s revamped Champions League this season, as well as being scheduled to play in FIFA’s expanded Club World Cup in 2024, leading to the potential of over 70 matches for both teams.
Courtois echoed these sentiments during a conversation with popular Spanish streamer Ibai Llanos on Wednesday. “Rodri is right,” he said. “There are a lot of games. A fan wants to see the best, and we have to find a balance. There are too many games, and there are more injuries.”
He pointed to the increasing number of competitions, such as the Nations League and Club World Cup, which add further strain on players. “People say we earn a lot of money, that we can’t complain, and that’s true, but we have to find a balance because the best [players] aren’t always going to be able to play,” Courtois added.
While Madrid won their Champions League opener against Stuttgart 3-1, their domestic form has been under scrutiny, with the team trailing leaders Barcelona by four points in LaLiga. Amidst the discussion over fixture overload, there has also been media speculation around Real Madrid’s forward line, with the emergence of the so-called “BMV” trio of Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and Vinícius Jr., sidelining Rodrygo from the limelight.
Courtois defended his teammate, saying, “In the dressing room, we know the importance and quality of Rodrygo. He doesn’t have to get angry, but if he plays better, let him get angry.”
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