FC Porto's President, Andre Villas-Boas, has revealed the difficulties the club faced in the recent transfer window due to the expanded FIFA Club World Cup. According to Villas-Boas, several potential transfer targets declined to join the club, specifically citing concerns about the additional workload and lack of rest associated with participating in the tournament.
FIFA's decision to expand the Club World Cup to include 32 teams has been met with mixed reactions, particularly from European clubs and player unions. The tournament, which commenced in the United States on June 12, 2025, adds significant strain to an already congested football calendar. This calendar is further complicated by the upcoming 2026 World Cup, also to be held in the United States, which will feature an expanded format with more participating teams.
Villas-Boas highlighted the growing anxieties among players regarding their physical well-being and the importance of adequate rest. He noted that many players preferred to prioritize rest and recuperation to ensure they start the new season fresh, rather than participate in the Club World Cup. This sentiment reflects a broader concern within the football community about player burnout and the increased risk of injuries due to relentless scheduling.
Speaking on the Men In Blazers podcast, Villas-Boas emphasized that the current calendar leaves players with virtually no reset period between seasons. He described the situation as "almost a continuation of last season," with the next season looming immediately after, preventing players from adequately recovering. He voiced his concern that players who are not fresh cannot contribute effectively.
The Club World Cup features two teams from the Primeira Liga, Porto and Benfica. Despite adding Gabri Veiga from Al Ahli to their ranks, Villas-Boas implied that further recruitment was hampered by the Club World Cup. He acknowledged the responsibility to perform well in the tournament, stating, "We have a responsibility to win games and get past the group stage. In the round of 16, we could face two important European teams."
Villas-Boas also pointed out that South American clubs might have an advantage in the Club World Cup because the tournament coincides with a different stage of their season compared to European teams.
Adding to his criticism, Villas-Boas had previously revealed his disappointment with the financial compensation for participating in the Club World Cup, stating that the estimated €16 million to €20 million per club was "well below initial expectations." Despite this, he affirmed Porto's pride in participating and their desire to honor their history in the competition, having won the Intercontinental title twice.
The challenges faced by Porto in attracting players underscore the growing tension between club ambitions, tournament obligations, and player welfare. As football continues to globalize and the calendar becomes increasingly packed, finding a balance that protects players while maintaining the quality and excitement of the sport remains a critical challenge for governing bodies and clubs alike.
