The international break has proven costly for several European clubs, with a number of key players sustaining injuries while on duty with their national teams. Barcelona has been particularly hard-hit, with midfielder Gavi suffering a season-ending injury that has left the club in a state of despair.
Gavi, who has been one of Barcelona’s standout performers this season, sustained a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during Spain’s 3-1 win over Georgia in European Championship qualifying on Sunday. The 19-year-old will require surgery and is expected to be out of action for the remainder of the campaign.
Barcelona is not alone in its misfortune. Real Madrid is also without Vinicius Junior and Eduardo Camavinga, both of whom suffered muscle injuries while playing for Brazil and France, respectively. Vinicius is expected to be out for around two months, while Camavinga’s absence could be shorter.
Other clubs affected by the international break include Manchester United, who may be without goalkeeper André Onana after he couldn’t finish Cameroon’s World Cup qualifier on Friday, and Inter Milan, who saw defender Alessandro Bastoni pick up an injury while on duty with Italy.
The frequency of injuries sustained during international duty has led some to question the scheduling of these breaks, particularly given the congested nature of the club football calendar. A recent study by the Howden insurance group found that the length of absence due to player injuries was longer following the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which was the first to be played in the European winter and in the middle of the season.
In response to concerns from clubs, FIFA has increased the funding for its Club Protection Program, which provides compensation for players injured while on international duty. For the 2023-26 men’s World Cup period, FIFA has allocated $150 million for the program, and it can pay a maximum of €7.5 million ($8.2 million) for one player’s injury according to a daily rate of €20,548 ($22,450) payable for a maximum of 365 days.
Despite the financial compensation available, the loss of key players can have a significant impact on clubs, both on and off the field. Injuries can disrupt team chemistry, force managers to make unwanted changes to their lineups, and potentially derail entire seasons.
The international break is a valuable opportunity for players to represent their countries, but it comes at a cost. As clubs continue to grapple with the issue of player injuries, it is likely that the debate over the scheduling of international breaks will continue.
