In soccer, there are plenty of matches that keep fans entertained with non-stop action. Yet, what brings joy to fans can be a burden to soccer players who must navigate through a packed schedule. While some have voiced their concerns about the relentless fixture congestion in the past, the latest to do so is Aurelien Tchouameni. But his complaints have not gone unnoticed, as the Real Madrid star ended up receiving a brutal warning. Questions were raised surrounding his life outside the sport too.

Despite boasting a hefty $107 million paycheck from Real Madrid, the midfielder is rallying for fewer games. So, what’s the deal with soccer fixture crowding these days?

Aurelien Tchouameni issued a warning over jammed schedule complaints

Earlier, Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni ranted about soccer players being forced to play too many matches. Following France’s 2-1 over the Netherlands in the Euro qualifiers, the star voiced other’s words over jammed fixtures. As per Get French Football News, the youngster said playing a lot of fixtures, “materializes in injuries” and “it is up to the authorities and the players to bang their fists on the table.”

Interestingly, his rant caught the eye of PSG legend Jerome Rothen, who had some strong words to quote. While speaking to RMC Sport, he said, “Do you want fewer matches? Well, you’re going to get less money.” Rothen then took a direct hit on Tchouameni by saying, “I usually defend the players. but now, I’m going to hit Aurelien Tchouameni. If you just devote yourself to your job, you are paid for it… to be good in the field, to prepare yourself!”

He insisted that today’s fixtures are the same as 20-30 years ago. He remarked that the fatigue Tchouameni complains about is due to their outside activities. “Today they spend their lives on social networks, making advertising spots. Take a jet to go see an MMA fight or shoot a pub spot in Turkey. In these cases guys, take fewer pills for that and devote yourself to football, just to your profession,” he concluded.

Indeed, these are bold claims from the former Parisian star that are unlikely to sit well with Tchouameni and other players rallying the cause. But who is right? Are players suffering from a packed schedule? Let’s dive deeper to know more.

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Are soccer players suffering from a jampacked schedule?

In addition to playing year-round for their respective domestic sides, some soccer players are also obliged to participate in international matches. Since they cannot refuse either of these commitments, they find themselves dealing with a congested schedule. As a result, there is an increased risk of injuries among these stars if they cannot recover from fatigue.

On the other hand, players are earning millions. They are being paid for their job, to play soccer. While it’s natural for employees to complain about a heavy workload, requesting a reduction in the load may not be appropriate. Perhaps the only way to address this issue is for soccer authorities to create a workable fixture calendar. This approach would prevent players from struggling with fatigue, and it would soothe the concerns of both domestic and international teams about losing their star players to injuries. Any thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

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