As players from their respective countries set off once again for the October international break, many will be looking ahead to the proposed changes to international breaks next season and how they may affect teams. But what is changing, and what does it mean for players and their respective clubs?
International Breaks: The Changes
Starting from next season, there will be four international breaks instead of five, as the September break has been extended, with the October international break no longer part of the football schedule. This will allow teams to play four matches across three weeks, thus removing the requirements for an October international break.
Currently, international teams play matches on five different occasions: March, June, September, October, and November. This is in addition to extra matches that are played when international tournaments, including the World Cup, are taking place.
The move to make the change was approved by the FIFA Council back in March 2023, allowing for an extra week of domestic football in the calendar. It is a move that is set to last until at least 2030.
October International Break To Be Replaced With Extended September International Break: The Positives and the Negatives
For many fans, the international break leaves them divided. For some, it is a moment to mark patriotism and travel the world, supporting their nation. For others, it is a dull occasion that has a lack of importance due to the number of friendlies involved, along with other factors.
However, this move does make sense for some reasons. The World Cup Final is being played on July 19, which is the latest date for a final since 1966. Furthermore, the extended break will allow players to travel less, particularly with regards to the likes of Chris Wood, as the striker plays in the Premier League, whilst representing New Zealand at the international level.
Therefore, this move allows for player welfare to be considered. Players will supposedly be fresher, having travelled less. Furthermore, having four fixtures in three weeks will allow managers to utilise their squad more. Therefore, top players may have to play fewer minutes should they play against what is considered a lower-ranked nation.
However, the number of international matches being played is the same. Thus, many will argue, if you were to consider player welfare, is it necessary to continue with the same number of international friendlies?
In addition to this, some clubs may also question the timing of the long break. The extended break comes at a time when clubs have only played their first few matches of the season. Therefore, clubs will have to endure what may be labelled a shorter pre-season, having finished their normal pre-season only a few matches prior.
Finally, those fans who oppose the entertainment value of international breaks may question the move and, therefore, the desire to continue with the same number of matches. Those fans will be overjoyed at the return of club football, only for the international matches to return very quickly.
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Conclusion
The nature of international breaks is a divisive one, generally, with varying opinions on the importance. However, fans and clubs are often aligned on the fact that breaks in September, October and November are too frequent.
Therefore, a move to remove the international break may be welcomed, in some sense. However, when taking into account player welfare, many will argue that some of the matches may be removed from the calendar, rather than playing the same amount in a shorter period.
Furthermore, this move may make clubs adapt their transfer strategy. If they are to be without players for that period due to international matches, other players may be signed, due to fears over injuries and fitness.
However, this is a confirmed move, and fans will need to adapt to it at the start of next season, as it is set to remain in place for the next few years.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Uk Sports Pics Ltd
Recording Date: 09.10.2025