International breaks: hidden nightmare for managers

The international break dilemma

International breaks might look like a pause in the calendar—but for managers, they can be one of the most stressful periods of the season.

Former Stoke City manager Tony Pulis explains how what once felt like an opportunity quickly became a major problem.

Then vs now: what changed?

Early Premier League years

• Only top clubs lost players
• Smaller teams could gain an advantage
• Opponents often fatigued

Modern football

• Almost every squad loses multiple players
• Even Championship clubs are heavily affected
• Squad disruption is now universal

The advantage is gone—everyone suffers

The biggest issue: player workload

When players return, they often arrive:

• After long-haul travel (South America, Africa)
• With limited recovery time
• Carrying injuries or fatigue

Managers must rely heavily on:

• Medical teams
• Recovery protocols
• Constant communication with national squads

Loss of control

One of the biggest frustrations?

Managers don’t control their own players

• National teams can call up injured players
• Travel decisions aren’t club-controlled
• Different coaching/medical standards apply

Your key player is suddenly in someone else’s hands

When your star player disappears

The most extreme example involved Ricardo Fuller.

• Called up by Jamaica national football team
• No confirmed fixture found
• Promised quick return

Then… disappeared for nearly a week

No contact. No updates. Nothing.

The unbelievable twist

Hours before a crucial match vs Wolves:

Fuller suddenly reappears

Acts like nothing happened

Manager reaction?

• Furious
• Says nothing (for the team’s sake)
• Starts him on the bench

Chaos turns into magic

Despite barely being able to warm up:

Fuller comes on

Scores a decisive goal

Secures a 4-2 win

And just like that…

“Winning hides everything.”

The real lesson

International breaks expose a brutal truth:

Managers cannot control everything

Star players are unpredictable

Results often dictate reactions

A surprising benefit

Over time, managers learned something unexpected:

The break is also a chance to reset themselves

Instead of:

• Being first in, last out
• Constant tactical work

They began to:

• Rest mentally
• Recharge physically
• Return with clearer decision-making

Final verdict

International breaks are a paradox:

Problems

• Player fatigue
• Injury risk
• Loss of control

Opportunities

• Recovery time (for staff)
• Tactical reset
• Mental refresh

Conclusion

In modern football, international breaks are no longer a luxury—they are a management test.

And sometimes…

Your most important player might not just be tired

He might not even show up.