Managers are expressing reservations about the expanded FIFA Club World Cup scheduled for this summer in the United States. While some Premier League teams prepare for the tournament, others question its necessity amid concerns over player welfare and an already crowded schedule.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot indicated he was not disappointed about his club's absence from the event. Manchester City and Chelsea are set to represent England in the revamped competition running from June 14 to July 13.
Slot stated many people involved in football doubt the need for another tournament for players who have just completed a long season. He questioned the health implications for players having minimal time off before entering the tournament and then returning for the start of their domestic league campaigns.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has also previously voiced criticism regarding the increasing demands placed on players by expanding fixture lists. Slot echoed this sentiment, suggesting a widespread feeling that the new tournament is "maybe a tournament too far."
The expanded Club World Cup is influencing team planning, including potential player transfers. Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold is anticipated to join Real Madrid, a participating club, before the tournament begins.
Liverpool is reportedly willing to release the player before his contract expires, but seeks compensation in the range of €1-2 million for the early departure. The expectation is that the Liverpool and England defender will make the move to the Spanish club, facilitated by a specific window created for participating teams to register new players ahead of the event.
Real Madrid's interest in securing Alexander-Arnold for the tournament is partly driven by injury concerns within their squad. Lucas Vazquez is currently the team's primary fit right-back.
Slot acknowledged the potential for the tournament to be a positive experience or "a great occasion" once it is underway. However, he reiterated that the immediate sentiment among many in the sport centers on the added burden to player health and the potential long-term effects on teams with limited recovery periods.
