Premier League clubs are facing a significant challenge as the new season approaches, with many key players having had limited time for recovery and pre-season training after the recent World Cup. The tournament concluded on 19 July, just 33 days before the Premier League season kicks off on 21 August.
Tottenham's preparations have been particularly impacted, with four players involved in the final weekend of the World Cup. Cristian Romero and new signing Marcos Senesi reached the final with Argentina, while Pedro Porro helped Spain lift the trophy. Djed Spence was with England until the third-place play-off on 18 July. These players are expected to return around 8 or 9 August, leaving them with approximately two weeks to reintegrate before Tottenham's season opener at Brentford on 22 August.
Manchester City and Arsenal also have concerns, having seen more players than any other Premier League club reach the latter stages. Rodri, who played 726 minutes for Spain, recently had back surgery and is expected to miss a "short period" at the start of the season. Arsenal's William Saliba will be sidelined for an "extended period" with a back issue, though neither setback is solely attributed to the World Cup.
The demanding football calendar is a growing concern, with many top players experiencing three consecutive summers of major tournaments. Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez played all 810 minutes of Argentina's World Cup run, while Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister played 749 minutes. Managers like Mikel Arteta and Enzo Maresca have voiced concerns about the workload on elite players.