LALIGA adjusts season calendar due to increased international match load

LALIGA has adjusted its competition calendar to address the increasing burden of international matches and ensure adequate recovery time for players. Due to the expanded format of the FIFA World Cup, which now includes 48 teams and a higher number of matches, the Spanish league has postponed four matches from the opening matchday to provide more rest for players involved in late-stage international tournaments.

Roberto Jiménez of the LALIGA Players' Association noted that the decision aims to protect players who participated in deep tournament runs. The league also faces unique scheduling constraints, such as not playing during the Christmas period and managing the midweek commitments of eight clubs participating in European competitions. Additionally, the expansion of the FIFA Club World Cup has been cited as a factor contributing to a saturated football calendar.