Raphinha Voices Concerns Over Club World Cup Schedule and Player Vacations
Raphinha, the Brazilian forward for Barcelona, has expressed his disappointment over the extended season that requires players to forgo their vacation time to participate in the ongoing Club World Cup. The tournament, which began on June 14 and runs until July 13, has not provided players with adequate rest following a grueling European league season that concluded in late May.
In a candid statement, Raphinha highlighted the challenges faced by players, particularly those from European clubs. “Speaking particularly as someone who plays for a European team, we would currently be on vacation,” he said. He pointed out that teammates Marquinhos and Beraldo from Paris Saint-Germain, who recently won the Champions League, have had little time to celebrate their achievement before transitioning to national team duties and now the Club World Cup.
Raphinha criticized the lack of consultation with players regarding the tournament’s scheduling, stating, “Having to give up our vacations out of obligation is very complicated. It’s our right. Everyone deserves at least a month of vacation, and many of them won’t get it.”
The timing of the Club World Cup has raised concerns, especially with major European leagues slated to resume in mid to late August. Raphinha noted that teams, such as PSG, could face an extremely tight schedule if they advance to the final. “If PSG reaches the Club World Cup final, they will have the Super Cup right away. It doesn’t stop,” he warned.
He further emphasized that players should have a say in tournament participation, adding, “It should be up to us to accept it. Having to give up your vacation to play in a new tournament is very complicated.”
