Pep Guardiola Manchester City 2023-24Getty Images

Will Pep Guardiola finally get his way? FIFA offers talks to tackle congested fixture calendar after players threaten legal action

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  • FIFA continually adding games and competitions
  • Clubs furious with consistent expansion
  • Pep Guardiola has already hit out
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The European Leagues organisation has previously announced that a complaint will be filed to the European commission as FIFA continues to add and expand competitions to the global calendar. Pep Guardiola has repeatedly hit out at the organisation of tournaments, leaving players "exhausted".

    FIFA has expanded the World Cup to 48 teams from 32, and a 32-team Club World Cup will also be played every four years from next year.

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  • Lionel Messi Argentinia 2022 World Cup TrophyGetty

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Now, FIFA has offered conciliatory talks with the World Leagues Association and FIFPro. The world governing body is, clearly, aiming to shelve the prospect of legal action.

  • WHAT FIFA SAID

    Per the Associated Press, FIFA's statement read: "Our offer to engage in dialogue remains on the table. FIFA believes there is a more productive way forward for football than the threat of legal action."

    FIFA also claims that it "serves and balances the overall interests of world football, including the protection of players".

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  • Pep Guardiola Manchester City 2024-25Getty

    WHAT NEXT?

    FIFA's plans for the 2026 World Cup and the Club World Cup are already iron-clad. However, it remains to be seen if legal action does actually find its way to the courts.

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