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Welcome to the Nutmeg, each week, you can expect: Exclusive previews of major football events – Spotlight features on top football creators – In-depth analysis of trending football culture.
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ON THE BRINK OF STRIKE

The topic of a potential player strike is heating up, with several prominent footballers voicing concerns about the increasingly packed match schedule. Manchester City’s Rodri has been one of the most vocal, suggesting that players are "close" to striking if the relentless workload continues. Between club competitions like the expanded Champions League, the new FIFA Club World Cup, and international fixtures, top players are facing over 70 games a season, leaving little time for rest and recovery. Rodri isn’t alone—Alisson Becker of Liverpool and Manuel Akanji have also shared frustrations about the physical and mental toll of such a congested calendar​.

Even managers like Carlo Ancelotti have joined the chorus, calling for a reduction in games to protect player welfare and improve the quality of competitions. FIFPRO, the players’ union, has announced plans to file a formal complaint against FIFA, accusing them of prioritising commercial interests over player health. They argue that the current calendar is unsustainable, and unless changes are made, a strike could be the next step.

However, not everyone agrees with the idea of a strike. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca expressed doubts about whether players would voluntarily sit out games. He acknowledged the scheduling challenges but argued that most players, driven by their love for the game, won’t ask to be excluded. Maresca believes that while the workload is heavy, players will adapt rather than stop playing altogether.

This division in opinions highlights the complexity of the issue. While some are ready to take action for the sake of player health, others are willing to push through, driven by their passion for the game. How this will unfold remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: football’s calendar crunch is reaching a boiling point​.

PAIN IN PARIS

Things aren't looking great off the pitch for Paris Saint-Germain right now. Following the high-profile exits of Lionel Messi and Neymar, the club has seen a significant decline in both shirt sales and sponsorship deals. Without the superstar names that once attracted massive media attention, PSG is struggling to maintain the same level of global appeal. According to reports, the club’s ability to negotiate lucrative sponsorships has also taken a hit, with Ligue 1 as a whole losing bargaining power in the sponsorship market.

Messi and Neymar were major forces in PSG’s global marketing efforts, and with their departures, the club’s shirt sales have plummeted. Additionally, the loss of Kylian Mbappé, who moved on during the summer, has only compounded the issue. With these superstars gone, PSG is finding it difficult to secure favorable overseas TV contracts and maintain the same media buzz they once enjoyed.

While PSG continues to perform well on the pitch under Luis Enrique, winning their first five matches this season, their financial standing has been impacted. Without their star power, PSG must now look for alternative ways to rebuild their global brand presence and attract new sponsors.

BIG WEEK FOR AMERICANS ABROAD

It was a standout week for several USMNT players in Europe, showcasing their talents across major leagues and competitions. Christian Pulisic continues his hot streak at AC Milan, scoring his third Serie A goal of the season in a massive 2-1 derby win over Inter. His impact has been crucial for Milan, and he’s quickly become one of their key players this season​.

Over in the Eredivisie, Malik Tillman had a stellar performance for PSV, scoring twice in their 3-1 victory over Fortuna Sittard. Tillman’s free-kick and top-corner finish earned him Americans Abroad Player of the Week honors​.

Weston McKennie also found the back of the net, playing a key role in Juventus’ 3-1 win over PSV in the Champions League, capping off an excellent week for U.S. players on the European stage​

Folarin Balogun made his mark in Ligue 1, scoring his first goal of the season in AS Monaco's 3-1 win over Le Havre​. And Brenden Aaronson was back in action for Leeds United, assisting in their 2-0 win over Cardiff City, continuing to show his versatility.

Other news you shouldn’t let slip through your legs:

👊That was a beating. In their first Champions League match, Bayern Munich won 9-2. Not only is this a thrashing, but they’ve become the first team in history to score 9 goals in a Champions League match. Captain Kane had five to himself, even if three of them were pens.

🚫Inconsequential. After Manchester City’s 90+8’ equalizer against Arsenal, Erling Haaland had a bit of a unique celebration. He grabbed the bouncing ball from inside the net and on his way to his teammates, he hucked the ball at the back of Gabriel Magalhães’s head. Apparently, the footage was reviewed and further punishment wasn’t necessary. A bit of a shocker, but extremely entertaining.

💰More American ownership. The Friedkin Group, led by American billionaire Dan Friedkin, has reached an agreement to take over Everton by purchasing a 94% majority stake from current owner Farhad Moshiri. This deal is a huge move for Everton, as the Friedkin Group also owns AS Roma and brings significant investment power. The takeover is still subject to regulatory approval from the Premier League, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.The Friedkin Group aims to bring stability to the club, with plans to complete the new Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, signaling a brighter future for the Toffees.

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