But your argument does not take into account that the game is played at a faster pace, with more athletic players. Players are fitter now than in the past, mainly through better eating habits and the advance of sport science. As a result, a player has to be close to his physical maximum to perform, otherwise they get found out. Also, there is no relevance between high wages and a players ability to perform physically and mentally. I am left puzzled by Rafa's team selection at times, but I do understand that the team will change for tactical or physical reasons. Many of these decisions, we will never be privvy to.