Fifa has switched to a three-week international break in late September and early October, reducing the number of breaks from five to four. The change was partly due to the 2026 World Cup final on 19 July, the latest date since 1966. Player welfare, including travel considerations, was a key factor, particularly for African and South American players in Europe.
However, the extended break has led to numerous injuries. Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott withdrew from the England squad with a thigh injury, and Manchester City striker Erling Haaland limped off for Norway before leaving camp. Liverpool duo Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak also picked up injuries. Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona's Raphinha sustained injuries while on international duty.
England boss Thomas Tuchel has criticized the three-week break, citing travel and only two days of rest between games. He stated, "I can assure everyone that player welfare is priority number one," but noted that new training styles and positions may increase injury risk. A full comparison of injury rates may have to wait until the end of the season.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing