Heung-Min Son calls for reduced fixtures amid player workload concerns

Heung-Min Son, the captain of Tottenham Hotspur, has voiced concerns regarding the increasing number of fixtures that players are facing, urging football authorities to take the issue seriously. Speaking before Spurs' Europa League match against Qarabag, he highlighted the physical and mental toll that the demanding schedule has on players, emphasizing that they are not robots and need to prioritize their well-being. Son pointed out that the current fixture program is inflexible, leading to a higher risk of injuries among players. The extension of the initial phase of the Europa League to eight games, mirroring changes in the Champions League, has intensified the workload for players. Son noted that while players want to compete and reach finals, the growing number of games compromises their health and performance quality. He stressed that the responsibility for addressing these concerns does not lie solely with the players, as there are broader issues at play. In addition to discussing fixture congestion, Son also addressed a personal matter involving teammate Rodrigo Bentancur, who had made an alleged racist remark about him. Despite this incident, Son expressed his affection for Bentancur, stating that the midfielder had sincerely apologized and felt remorseful for his actions. This highlights the camaraderie within the team, even amidst controversies. Overall, Son's comments reflect a growing sentiment among players regarding the need for a more manageable schedule, as they seek to maintain their health and the quality of the game. The call for change is becoming increasingly urgent as players consider collective action to address their concerns.