Belgium manager Roberto Martinez believes this year’s World Cup in Qatar may not look the best it has ever been.
The tournament is usually summer but will take place from November 21 to December 18 when temperatures will be cooler.
That also means it will be in the middle of most league seasons.
“It’s always been world-class noise that we always get players when they’re tired,” Martinez told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“I think this could be the best World Cup or the international tournament we have seen because the physical level of the players will be at a high level.
“Everyone will be less than 1,000 minutes into the game a few weeks after the start of the season – this is a good time for players to play for their national team.”
Martinez’s team is one of the favorites to win this year’s World Cup, which could be Belgium’s last ‘gold generation’ to win a major trophy.
The decision to host the tournament in Qatar has received much criticism due to concerns over the country’s human rights record.
