Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has urged the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) to take stronger action to shield players from the grueling fixture schedule, especially in light of teammate Ben White’s extended injury. White, a key defender for Arsenal, is set to miss the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery, a major setback for the team’s Premier League title hopes. Manager Mikel Arteta is already dealing with multiple injuries to important players this season.
Raya voiced his concerns over the increasing physical strain on players due to the crowded football calendar. “The pressure on players is becoming unsustainable,” he said. “We need the PFA to intervene and push for a more balanced schedule to protect our health and careers.”
With Arsenal competing in several competitions, the team’s squad depth is being severely tested, raising concerns about player welfare amid ongoing debates about the heavy fixture load in modern football. White’s injury adds to the mounting fitness challenges faced by Arteta, further complicating the club’s chances of winning trophies this season.
Raya’s call for change underscores a wider issue affecting the football community, highlighting the urgent need for reforms to prevent such injuries from derailing other teams’ seasons.
