Football Analyst Clinton McDubus Discusses Strain on Players Amid Increased International Breaks

As another international break concludes, club football fans are beginning to dread the two-week hiatus. In addition to the often dull fixtures, there’s always a risk of players suffering injuries.

Supporters of Nigeria witnessed a particularly unsettling situation, as the Super Eagles were held captive in Libya. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) canceled the second leg of the Group D match after Libyan authorities redirected the Eagles' plane to a remote airfield. For over eighteen hours, the players were deprived of food, water, and internet access.

These events unfold against the backdrop of discussions on the consequences of increasingly demanding football schedules.

Clinton McDubus, a podcaster and top football analyst, shared his thoughts with DAILY POST, stating, "I think the thing that makes every international break feel like too much is what has come before and will come after." He pointed to the hectic fixture lineup since the November/December 2022 World Cup, noting that the expanded FIFA Club World Cup next year and the 2026 World Cup are adding to the strain.

McDubus continued, "With the Nations League making these breaks more competitive, the toll on players is greater. Teams are fielding their best players for matches that could affect tournament qualifications, making the games more demanding."

Notably, 2024 will see another international break from November 11–19, less than a month away. McDubus predicted, "It’s going to keep taking a toll on players. All the traveling and competitive games will likely lead to more injuries and a less exciting end to the season."

Some players have even hinted at going on strike, though McDubus expressed skepticism about the feasibility: "Considering they have contracts, at least at the club level, I don’t see how it’s possible legally. But there might be a loophole for collective action."

Following the Super Eagles’ ordeal in Libya, there has been talk of clubs potentially resisting the release of African players. McDubus explained, "Per FIFA rules, they cannot hold a player back from call-ups. The most they can do is pressure players to decline certain call-ups, which could affect the player-club relationship."