The Big Discussion: What do you think of the international break?
The relationship between English football fans and international football can be mixed.
Some see it as a refreshing change, offering a chance to follow their national team and watch players from different clubs come together to represent their country.
Others view it as an unwelcome interruption to what they care about most, causing frustration and even outright disdain. In many ways, it’s a love-hate relationship that has become a regular feature of the footballing calendar.
More disruption
Some fans of the big Premier League clubs might be annoyed that this current break is the 2nd one in an already-packed schedule. Some teams such as Nottingham Forest have started to build momentum. A break for these fans could feel like a real mood-killer. That same level of passion doesn’t always translate to the international stage, especially outside major tournaments.
Another major point of contention has been the risk of injuries. A couple of injuries at this stage of the campaign can, again, really stop any momentum that might be developing.
Despite all the criticism, there are expected to be over 80,000 at the upcoming Nations League match between England and Greece. You'd have to say that many fans still love international football.
Regaining a love of the England national team
That said, not all English football fans are against the international break. For many, it’s an opportunity to rally behind the national team. During major tournaments like the World Cup or the European Championships, support for England is at fever pitch. The international break provides a taste of that, albeit on a smaller scale.
Many fans, especially of smaller clubs, take pride in seeing their club’s players represent their country, and watching England play still holds a certain charm, particularly for those who have strong memories of iconic moments, like England’s 1966 World Cup win or more recently, the run to the final of Euro 2024. These moments have created a connection with the national team that resurfaces during international breaks. Very few people will ever forget that Ollie Watkins goal in the semi-final of that recent tournament.
The video below was posted on the European Super Football YouTube channel.
For those who enjoy international football, the break offers something different from the week-to-week grind of the domestic season. The international scene can bring exciting match-ups, different tactical approaches, and a broader perspective on the game.
For all the criticism, you'd have to argue that the international break is a necessary part of the sport. It allows some of the world's smallest countries to compete on the global stage, even if that sometimes means asking fans to endure a weekend or two without their beloved Premier League.
You'd only have to say how San Marino responded to a rare win recently to see its value. This video from the Tim Traveller shows how this win was celebrated. The Night San Marino Finally Won (After Twenty Years) (youtube.com)
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