Oliver Glasner has launched a scathing attack on football’s governing bodies after Crystal Palace were handed a gruelling December schedule that will see them play five matches in ten days leading up to Christmas.
The Palace boss, speaking ahead of the London derby against Brentford, said he is “upset and anxious” about the situation and accused organisers of neglecting player welfare in pursuit of commercial and broadcast priorities.
“Irresponsible for the Players”
After Palace’s Carabao Cup quarter-final qualification with a win over Liverpool, the club’s already busy fixture list became even more congested. Glasner revealed his disbelief when he learned that his side could be forced to play three matches in four days, calling the situation “irresponsible.”
“Honestly, I can’t believe that this will be fixed in this way. I think this will be irresponsible for the players. We have a responsibility for the players and have to look after their welfare. That is our main responsibility, and not just ours here at the club.” — Oliver Glasner, Crystal Palace manager
The Austrian coach said the Premier League, EFL, and UEFA must work together more effectively to avoid such scheduling clashes.
“In the summer, there are people who have to work on the schedule. I would really prefer if they worked together. It would be nice if UEFA, Premier League, FA, and EFL talk together. This is what really makes me upset and anxious.” — Glasner
Palace’s Brutal December Run
Palace are currently preparing for one of the most demanding stretches of their season, which could include:
- Dec 3: Burnley (A)
- Dec 7: Fulham (A)
- Dec 11: Conference League
- Dec 14: Manchester City (H)
- Dec 16: Carabao Cup Arsenal (A)
- Dec 18: Conference League
- Dec 21: Leeds United (A)
- Dec 27: Tottenham (H)
- Dec 30: Fulham (H)
Such a schedule leaves minimal rest periods — in some cases less than 72 hours — between competitive matches, a timeline that Glasner says directly contradicts FIFA’s own welfare recommendations.
“They Don’t Care What FIFA Says”
Glasner went on to reference a July meeting in New York between FIFA and global player unions, during which it was suggested that footballers should have a mandatory 72-hour rest period between matches.
“There was a meeting in July in New York where FIFA met different players’ organisations, and they suggested a mandatory 72 hours between two competitive games. Now, here in England, they say they don’t care what they are telling us. I really push very hard that they don’t let us play three games in four days — because it’s irresponsible.” — Oliver Glasner
The Palace manager also noted that the issue extends beyond his own club, impacting other top sides such as Arsenal who face similar fixture congestion.
Our View: Glasner’s Right to Speak Out
In our view, Glasner’s frustration is entirely valid. England’s football calendar is notorious for its relentless pace — particularly during the festive period — but this latest example highlights a lack of coordination between domestic and international bodies.
Player fatigue, injuries, and declining performance levels are inevitable when recovery periods are repeatedly shortened. Glasner’s comments echo growing calls across Europe for football authorities to prioritise sustainability over scheduling saturation.
Key Insights
- Crystal Palace face five matches in ten days this December.
- Glasner says scheduling is “irresponsible” and makes him “upset and anxious.”
- Urges UEFA, Premier League, FA, and EFL to coordinate better.
- References FIFA’s mandatory 72-hour rest recommendation.
- Warns that fixture congestion puts players’ health at risk.
What’s Next
Crystal Palace face Brentford this weekend before turning their focus to the Conference League and a string of crucial Premier League fixtures. Glasner’s comments may prompt further discussions between club managers and league officials about fixture reform — but for now, his players will have to endure one of the busiest months of the season.
👉 Palace fans — do you agree with Glasner’s comments on player welfare and fixture overload?
By John William — FootballPlace.co.uk
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 31 Oct 2025 16:44
Welcome to the big boy playing field..
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