Football (soccer) dilemma: what comes first club or country?

As a football / soccer fan, do you prefer watching club football or international football? Which would you choose your club or your national team?

Football dilemma: club or country?

Many supporters feel that their club is more important than their country. Affiliation to a particular club can be passed down through generations and supporters might rather see their club win their national league or continental club competitions, such as the Champions League or the Copa Libertadores, than their country win the UEFA European Championship,  Copa America, and even the World Cup. Clubs would rather avoid having their players in competitions or friendly games among national teams when the time could be better spent on the training ground preparing for the next club match. Clubs also pay the salaries of these elite players, so clubs are loathe to risk them to injury while they are away with their national teams. 

At the same time, it is an honor for any professional player to represent their country and play in international tournaments such as the World Cup. Until recently, the greatest accolade that could be bestowed upon a football player was to play for their country. Playing for their national team also allows footballers to compete against some of the world’s best players to develop further. A good performance from a player during a high profile tournament can greatly increase their status and salary. Over the years a debate that involves club loyalty against country duties is increasingly placing footballers in an uncomfortable position, forcing them to choose one over the other. As a fan, do you prefer watching international or club football?

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