Fatigue? The World Cup players with the toughest seasons

The FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification matches began on June 6, 2024, with teams and players facing potential fatigue due to extensive playing time since the previous summer's Club World Cup. BBC Sport analyzed the total minutes played by various national teams and their key players to identify those with the most demanding schedules. This analysis aims to highlight potential impacts on player performance and injury risk during the upcoming international tournaments. The data considers club competitions, continental club championships, and international fixtures played from July 2023 to June 2024. Specific attention is given to players who participated in multiple demanding leagues or reached advanced stages in various cup competitions. The findings are intended to inform team management and provide context for fan expectations regarding player stamina and readiness.