Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has called on the Professional Footballersโ Association (PFA) to take stronger measures to protect players from the relentless fixture schedule, following teammate Ben Whiteโs extended injury setback.
White, a cornerstone of Arsenalโs defense, has been ruled out until 2025 after undergoing knee surgery. His absence marks a severe blow to the Gunnersโ Premier League title aspirations, with manager Mikel Arteta already grappling with a string of injuries to key players this season.
Speaking on the matter, Raya expressed his concern over the physical toll placed on players due to an increasingly congested football calendar. โThe demands on players are becoming unsustainable,โ he remarked. โWe need the PFA to step in and advocate for a better balance to safeguard our health and careers.โ
Arsenal, who are contending in multiple competitions, have seen their squad depth tested to its limits, raising questions about player welfare amidst the ongoing debate about the volume of games in modern football. Whiteโs injury adds to a growing list of fitness issues for Arteta, further complicating the clubโs pursuit of silverware this season.
The Gunners now face an uphill battle, with Rayaโs call for action highlighting a broader issue that resonates across the footballing community. The plea for change underlines the need for immediate intervention to prevent similar scenarios from derailing other teamsโ seasons.