Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk has admitted he is against the idea of hosting the World Cup every two years.
Plans are currently afoot to take the World Cup from its current format, which sees it take place every four years, and reduce that to every two years.
The idea is being fronted by former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who, as part of his new role as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, has been championing the idea for the best part of the last year.
His strategy has been to share the idea far and wide, as well as convince current and former players and managers to back the idea.
That’s something he’s enjoyed some success with so far, convincing several former stars to give their public approval and back the idea.
For the majority, though, the idea has been widely rejected, with players, fans and managers alike believing there simply is no need for the current format to be changed, nor is there any space in the football calendar unless it is drastically changed.
That would require serious work given the already packed fixture list, which includes tournaments from FIFA and UEFA and the domestic calendar as well.
Most players are already being pushed to the absolute limit and Van Dijk, who knows the pressure well given Liverpool’s already busy schedule, is against any changes.
“After the season, in June, we will play four more Nations League games,” he told Voetbal International.
“That’s quite a lot. Of course, we can’t complain, but the full schedule can lead to injuries. In England, we have discussions on this subject with the Professional Footballers Association.
“Soon, there will be a meeting of Liverpool players, including myself, with Arsène Wenger. That is about the plan to play a World Cup every two years.
“We as players will give our opinion. When we, as senior players from Liverpool and from other top English clubs, do that, then they have to listen, I think.
“The games are piling up. On the other hand, playing matches is the most fun there is. But we also have to look closely at the health and safety of the players.
“I don’t think it’s a good idea, a World Cup every two years. Even more so because the World Cup must remain special. I think we should keep it as it is now. Even though I won’t be able to experience many World Cups myself.”
