European Soccer Leagues Face $800 Million Injury Costs Amid Fixture Congestion

A new report highlights increased injuries across top leagues, sparking concerns over player welfare and potential strike action.

The Howden Men's European Football Injury Index recorded 4,123 injuries across Europe's top five leagues during the 2023-24 season, a 4% increase from the previous year.
Injuries in these leagues cost clubs a total of 732 million euros ($798 million) in player salaries, with the Premier League accounting for 44% of these costs.
Germany's Bundesliga had the highest injury frequency, with one occurring every 52 minutes, while Ligue 1 had the lowest at one every 151 minutes.
The report underscores growing concerns over fixture congestion, with expanded competitions like FIFA's Club World Cup adding to player workloads.
Player unions and leagues have filed a complaint to the European Commission against FIFA's expanded tournaments, citing increased physical demands and potential player strikes.