Maurizio Sarri criticizes football fixture density following Atalanta injuries

Atalanta manager Maurizio Sarri has called for official complaints to be filed with UEFA and FIFA regarding the ‘absurd’ football fixture schedule. Following a Conference League victory against Pafos, Sarri highlighted a rising number of player injuries, citing the intense schedule and the risks associated with players returning from international duty as primary causes.

Sarri noted that injuries are affecting many teams, not just Atalanta, and expressed surprise that players' associations have not taken a stronger stance. The manager emphasized that the current density of matches creates significant physical risks for athletes.

In response, Umberto Calcagno, president of the Italian Footballers' Association (AIC), defended the union, stating they have been fighting for player health for years alongside Fifpro. Calcagno clarified that the issue stems from the continuous increase in international commitments rather than the Italian league alone, noting that legal action has already been taken against FIFA on this matter.