The International Match Calendar in Men's Professional Football: An Expert Position Statement

Given the challenges and concerns associated with the congested schedule dictated by the International Match Calendar (IMC), there is a need for a player-centric expert position statement with specific recommendations and guidance related to the key dimensions of the IMC in men's professional football. Following a review of scientific and occupational health literature and surveys of players and staff in professional football, 19 statements across 6 key dimensions of the IMC were formulated. The statements were then reviewed and refined through a three-round Delphi study, engaging experts to a consensus-based position statement. Expert consensus was reached on 12 statements across 5 key dimensions of the IMC: in-season rest and recovery, off-season break, mid-season break, travel, and young player workload. Although consensus was not reached on statements related to match workload, 69% of experts agreed on the need for a maximum limit of matches per player per season. The expert position statement provides recommendations and guidance on structural safeguards within the IMC that prioritize the long-term health and performance of players.