FIFA is prepared to hold discussions led by Arsène Wenger on how to improve player welfare, with possible measures such as reducing the number of matches in an overloaded calendar and mandating breaks during the off-season.
Interest groups had seats on a committee that FIFA closed in 2021. The new panel will address operational, medical, regulatory, and legal perspectives, without a specific timeline for decision-making.
In an attempt to address stakeholder concerns, FIFA is scheduling this event amid increasing legal pressure, including a complaint to the European Commission this month. The union and the league filed a formal complaint referencing European competition law and the additional workload for elite players.
FIFA hopes that the working group will base its recommendations on the latest scientific research on the physical and mental well-being of players. Currently, FIFA is collaborating with the World Health Organization to promote best practices in the treatment of head injuries.
Arsène Wenger, former Arsenal manager and FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development since 2019, will lead the working group's discussions, which will bring together representatives from FIFPRO, clubs, national leagues, and national federations in the coming weeks.
