Full Breakdown
The Strain of Modern Football: Achraf Hakimi's Heavy Workload
12/27/2025, 9:11:14 PM
Overview of Achraf Hakimi's Playing Time
Achraf Hakimi, the Moroccan and Paris Saint-Germain football star, is facing significant physical strain due to an exhaustive playing schedule. According to a recent report by the international football players' union FIFPRO, Hakimi's commitments have resulted in a season that has lasted nearly a full year. This includes his participation in both club and international competitions, with the current season projected to see him play up to 74 matches, totaling nearly 7,000 minutes on the pitch.
FIFPRO's Findings on Player Workload
The FIFPRO report highlights that Hakimi is not alone in experiencing such demanding schedules. Other top players, including Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich, have also played 69 matches in the previous season, exceeding the recommended limit of 55 matches per season. The report emphasizes the growing issue of player fatigue, particularly among younger athletes, who are increasingly susceptible to long-term health risks due to excessive playing time.
The Impact of Compressed Seasons
Hakimi's season began with the Olympics in July 2024 and is expected to extend through the Club World Cup in July 2025, leaving him with only a 22-day offseason. Medical experts recommend a minimum of four weeks of rest between seasons, along with a retraining period before competitive play resumes. However, such breaks are becoming increasingly rare in modern football, raising concerns about player welfare.
Criticism of Current Practices
Critics argue that the current football calendar places undue pressure on players, compromising their health and performance. Jules Kounde, a defender for Barcelona and France, stated, "People need to understand we're not machines. To deliver the level of play fans want — intense, competitive matches — we also need time to rest." This sentiment reflects a broader concern within the football community regarding the sustainability of player workloads.
The Need for Safeguards
The FIFPRO report also points to a lack of protection for young players like Hakimi, who has already accumulated over 10,000 minutes of playtime before turning 21. Comparatively, his national teammate Hakim Ziyech had played just over 3,000 minutes at the same age. The rising playing time for young athletes underscores the necessity for better management of their workloads to ensure their longevity in the sport.
Official Responses and Future Actions
In response to these concerns, FIFPRO has initiated legal action against FIFA, advocating for changes to the football schedule to better protect players. The ongoing situation highlights the urgent need for reforms in how player workloads are managed, as failure to address these issues could have lasting consequences for the sport and its athletes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “People need to understand we're not machines. To deliver the level of play fans want — intense, competitive matches — we also need time to rest,” — Jules Kounde, Barcelona Defender
- “Failure to better manage player workload is costing every stakeholder in football.” — FIFPRO Report
This situation surrounding Achraf Hakimi serves as a critical example of the broader challenges facing modern football, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to protect players' health and well-being.
