England captain Leah Williamson has raised concerns about the sustainability of the women’s football schedule, warning that players are pushing themselves to the limit and risking serious injuries. Williamson, who missed the 2023 World Cup due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, believes that the current workload could have detrimental effects unless properly managed. She joins a growing list of players, including Chelsea forward Sam Kerr and England’s Beth Mead and Alexia Putellas, who have suffered ACL injuries. UEFA has launched an initiative to examine these injuries in the women’s game. Williamson calls for better scheduling that prioritizes player rest and recovery, stating that the current approach is unsustainable.
In an interview with Telegraph Women’s Sport, Williamson expressed her concerns about the demanding nature of women’s football. She emphasized the toll that the frequent matches and minimal rest periods take on players, leading to fatigue and increased risk of injury.
We’re not bred for this. Nowadays we get to October and girls are saying, ‘I’m tired’ because you’re carrying so much from the previous season, Williamson explained.
The England captain believes that without addressing the workload issue, women’s football may struggle to attract larger crowds and increase ticket prices due to a lack of players available. She called for a solution to be found soon, highlighting the need for a more sustainable schedule.
When they – FIFA, UEFA, all the main people – do the scheduling, it should always be, ‘Rest first’, Williamson argued. She suggested that players should have a four-week break at the end of the season and a six-week preseason to ensure their health is not compromised.
Williamson also pointed out the insufficient recovery time given to players, using the example of England’s World Cup campaign. Despite reaching the final, the players were only granted five days off before returning to club duties.
Put in time when neither club nor country can touch a player, and just let them have a rest. But instead, what we do is say, ‘You need to play this, this, this’ and then say, ‘I’ll give you two days off in between’. It’s impossible. It’s unsustainable, she emphasized.
Addressing the issue of ACL injuries in women’s football, UEFA has launched an investigation to gain a better understanding of these specific injuries. The initiative aims to identify potential causes and implement preventive measures.
Williamson hopes for a shift in international calendars to strike a better balance between players’ workload and rest, ultimately ensuring their well-being and sustaining the growth of women’s football.
As the debate regarding the women’s football schedule continues, it remains to be seen whether governing bodies will take heed of Williamson’s concerns and implement changes to protect the players and the long-term future of the sport.
