The debate about the impact of schedules on a team’s fortunes remains a hot topic in soccer. Skeptics of such an impact will point out that every team faces the same sides throughout the season and that scheduling wise- everything levels out by the end of the season.
That rarely stops managers from complaining about a tough schedule, however. Look no further than the English Premier League where managers of the “top six” always have a thing or two to say when December rolls around and fixtures compile.
Across the Atlantic, Patrick Vieira has voiced little frustration, despite the fact that the month of July will demand just as much as Decembers in England.