Paris Saint-Germain’s boss Luis Enrique and midfielder Vitinha have condemned the Club World Cup’s early kick-off times, complaining of sweltering U.S. summer conditions.
This is despite the club’s emphatic 4-0 win over Atletico Madrid on Sunday.
The Group C clash, held at noon in Pasadena under a blazing sun and nearly 40°C heat with 60% humidity, saw both teams visibly struggle with fatigue.
Post-match, Enrique didn’t hold back: “The match was clearly influenced by the temperature.
“The time slot is great for European audiences, but the teams are suffering. It’s impossible to perform at a very high level for 90 minutes.”
Vitinha echoed his manager’s frustration:
“It was really difficult… I’m all red. It’s hot here at this time. We’re trying to recover as much as possible, because at this point in the season, it can be decisive.”
FIFA’s bid to align with UEFA prime-time audiences has led to matches kicking off midday U.S. time, placing players in heat zones.
