Man City star Rodri sparks PGA response after insisting he and team-mates will 'go on strike'
Manchester City midfielder Rodri has sparked controversy by suggesting players are "close" to striking over increasing fixture congestion.
Speaking ahead of City's Champions League opener against Inter Milan, Rodri warned: "I think we are close to that (striking). I think if you ask any player he will say the same."
"I think it's the general opinion of the players. And if it keeps this way, there will be a moment where we have no other option, I really think, but let's see."
Rodri's comments come amid significant changes to the football calendar.
Rodri has said the Man City players could go on strike
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The Champions League now features a new 36-team league phase, with clubs playing eight unique fixtures instead of six group stage matches.
Additionally, Manchester City will participate in an expanded 32-team FIFA Club World Cup next summer.
These changes mean City could potentially play up to 75 matches this season, with players involved in international football facing even more.
The Spain international expressed concern about the growing workload facing elite players, stating: "It's not the opinion of Rodri or whatever.
Rodri highlighted the strain this puts on players, saying: "This year we can go to 70, maybe 80.
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"I don't know, it depends how far you go in the competitions. In my humble opinion I think it is too much."
The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) has thrown its support behind Rodri's comments.
In a statement, the PFA said: "In recent weeks, our members have made their feelings very clear when it comes to the fixture calendar and player workload."
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The organisation emphasised that players and their unions have asked to be listened to and included in decision-making processes.
The PFA warned: "When they are ignored then the natural consequence is that players will begin to consider all options available to them."
The association described Rodri's remarks as a "serious wake up call" to football's governing bodies, highlighting the growing concerns among players about the expanding football calendar.
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Man City are facing a hectic schedule this season
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Rodri offered his perspective on the optimal number of matches for players to maintain peak performance.
He stated: "From my experience between 40-50 is the amount of games in which a player can perform in the highest level.
"After that you drop because it is impossible to sustain the physical level."
Man City are in action in the Champions League when they face Inter Milan on Wednesday
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The midfielder emphasised the importance of rest for quality performances, saying: "Not everything is money or marketing – it is also the quality of the show.
"When I am not tired I perform better and if the people want to see a better football, we need to rest."
Rodri's comments highlight growing concerns about the impact of fixture congestion on player welfare and the overall quality of football.