Do you agree with him?
Jose Mourinho have announced that he supports the idea of a 48-team World Cup.
The controversial plans unveiled by FIFA have split football fans and pundits around the world, but the Manchester United boss feels it’s a good idea.
Gianni Infantino, the FIFA president, has proposed the planned change, which will see 48 teams compete in 16 groups of three, before proceeding to the knock out stage.
It’s been heavily criticised but Mourinho has endorsed the idea, but only if the change does not invoke more demands and pressure on players.
“I’m totally in favour,” he said. “As a club manager, if the expansion meant more games, less holidays and less pre-season for players, I would say no.
“But it’s important for critics to analyse and understand that expansion doesn’t mean more matches.
“Players are protected and clubs are protected in this way. I prefer groups of three. Two matches and then through to the knock-out stages or go home.
“This way, the two group matches are crucial, then the knock-out stage is next which brings even more emotion.
“Teams with less potential and experience will probably play two matches and go home.
“But they would do so having improved and gained experience on the pitch, which would be added to the economic rewards of appearing at the finals – including further investment in their footballing infrastructure.
“The expansion means that the World Cup will be even more of an incredible social event. More countries, more investment in different countries in infrastructure, in youth football.
“More nations taking part means more passion, more happiness, more enthusiasm. More countries means more Africans, Asians, Americans together.
“Football is developed in the clubs, so we can’t expect football to explode in terms of quality at a World Cup.
“The World Cup is a social event and football can’t relinquish this opportunity to further reflect fans’ passion.”
By Ben Kelly – @benkelly_10
