The Agony of Football Fans During the International Break

Sean Houghton
4 min readOct 17, 2023

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As a football fan in the UK, there are few things more frustrating than the international break. For two long weeks, we are forced to endure a football-less existence, while our beloved players are off representing their national teams. It’s a time filled with boredom, anxiety, and a whole lot of resentment towards the international break. So, why is it that every football fan in the UK hates this period? Let’s dive in and explore the agony of football fans during the international break.

The dreaded international break is a time that UK football fans truly despise. Just as our club teams start to hit their stride in the Premier League, the momentum is abruptly halted. It’s not just the temporary halt of games that frustrates fans, whilst we understand the importance of international football, it still leaves a bitter taste in our mouths.
One of the main reasons why UK football fans are fed up with the international break is the risk of injury to key players. With so much at stake in the Premier League, the fear of losing a star player to an injury whilst playing for their country is agonising. It feels like a cruel blow to the hopes and dreams of our respective clubs.
Furthermore, the international break often disrupts the rhythm and momentum of club football. It can take several games for players to regain their form after a lengthy break, resulting in a dip in performance. This can be particularly frustrating for teams that were on a winning streak and had built up momentum.
Additionally, the worry about the impact of international football on their fitness levels can be overwhelming. It feels like a rollercoaster of emotions that we could do without.

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The impact of the international break on club football is undeniable. For teams in the English Premier League (EPL), not only does the international break affect the players themselves, but it also affects the overall team dynamics. The absence of key players can disrupt the chemistry and cohesion that has been developed earlier in the season.

Whilst we understand the importance of international football, the absence of club matches leaves a void that cannot be filled. The international matches simply don’t hold the same level of excitement and passion as the Premier League. We long for the intense rivalries, the drama of last-minute goals, and the ups and downs of our favourite teams.
During the international break, we are left with a sense of restlessness and boredom. It feels like an eternity without our regular dose of football. The anticipation builds as we wait for our players to return to their clubs, hoping they come back injury-free and ready to perform at their best.
Unfortunately, there is no escape from the anxiety that comes with the international break. The fear of players getting injured, the worry about their performance for their national teams, and the impact of international football on their fitness levels weigh heavily on our minds. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions that we could do without.

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The international break may be a frustrating time for football fans in the UK, but there are some solutions that can help alleviate the pain. One option is to embrace international football and use this time to support the national team. While it may not have the same level of excitement as club football, cheering for England or your favourite national team can still bring a sense of pride and enjoyment. Another solution is to engage with other football-related activities during the break. This could involve playing football video games, organising friendly matches with friends, or even attending lower league or non-league matches. It’s also a good time to catch up on football documentaries, read football books, or listen to football podcasts. Lastly, staying active and enjoying other hobbies or interests can help fill the void left by the absence of club football. Whether it’s going for a run, playing another sport, or exploring a new hobby, finding alternative sources of entertainment can make the international break more bearable. So, instead of dwelling on the frustration, let’s make the most of this time and find ways to enjoy football in different ways.

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