According to reports from Sport, FIFA's decision to consolidate the international breaks in September and October has drawn objections from both FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The 2026/27 season is entering uncharted territory, with clubs forced to pause competitive matches for international windows. Currently, international fixtures dominate nearly three weeks. FIFA's decision to consolidate the September and October breaks has not sat well with either FC Barcelona or Real Madrid.

Joan Laporta criticized the new international break format strongly during a general assembly meeting, particularly after a similar incident recently. Last season, Raphinha suffered an injury while playing for Brazil in a friendly, causing him to miss the Champions League semi-final second leg against Atlético Madrid. Laporta stated: "This international break makes no sense whatsoever. Flick told me the same thing a few days ago. A break for four consecutive matches will disrupt our rhythm. The fixture list is already packed, and players are under tremendous pressure. We will communicate with UEFA and FIFA to try to resolve this issue."

Flick shares the same view. The German coach has led FC Barcelona to the best start in the club's history, winning all eight official matches before the Sevilla game. Flick said: "Many players will report to their national teams. We are always concerned about players' condition after they leave. However, ultimately I trust them and their national team coaches."

Real Madrid's performance over the past two seasons has not dispelled doubts about their playing style, and the club also opposes the new international break. Mourinho said ahead of the Madrid Derby: "We can only adapt. For us, imagine having four players who need to go away for 20 days. Then some return one to three days before playing Biarritz, some four days before, some two days before... Vinicius Jr. will return from India with Brazil. Valverde will return from South Korea and India. Travel around the world just to come back. European players have to play four difficult matches because we're talking about the Nations League, where every team has similar levels."

This arrangement by FIFA, pushed by Gianni Infantino, has been criticized not only by clubs but also by national teams. Luis de la Fuente, after announcing the squad for the first four Nations League matches, said: "I don't like it. I prefer the old format. There is only two days' rest between two matches, plus travel and fatigue. I think a different format would better protect players' health. It's clear this cannot continue."

However, attitudes elsewhere in Europe are more cautious, with teams planning to reassess after the international break. Arteta said: "We need to experience it ourselves. As you can see, different national teams and coaches have taken different approaches regarding squad size. So maintaining good communication with them is crucial."

Arteta's Premier League rival, Maresca, replied sarcastically: "My kids still have to go to school, so I have to be here. During the international break, I will always review past matches and analyze where we can do better. The break is three weeks, so I have enough time to watch all the matches again."

Paris Saint-Germain's season has not started well, and they have simply accepted reality. Enrique said: "We have to accept the length of these international breaks. We will try to proceed as normal. Some players will be here and train individually."

Bayern Munich's coach hopes all players return safely: "Our entire squad is ready, and we hope it will be. We hope the boys will maintain their rhythm during this three-week international break. If they do, I believe we will be in a good position for the season."

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