Premier League clubs will not release players for international games in red-list countries

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Brazil's Ederson and Gabriel Jesus (left), who both play for Manchester City, along with Richarlison (right), who plays for Everton

According to the Premier League, its clubs decided "reluctantly, but unanimously," not to release any players during September's international break for matches in red-list nations.

Current UK government rules would force players to miss multiple games due to the 10-day isolation period upon return.

According to the Premier League, although "extensive discussions" were held with the Football Association (and government) "to find a solution", "no exemption" was granted.

It stated that it supported the top-flight side's decision, which will "apply to almost 60 players from 19 clubs who are due travel to 26 red-list nations".

Richard Masters, chief executive of Premier League, stated that Premier League clubs have always supported players' desire to represent their country - it is a matter for pride for all involved.

"But clubs have come to the realization that it would not be unreasonable to let players go in these circumstances, and they are reluctant but rightly so.

"Quarantine requirements will impact players' wellbeing and fitness in a significant way." We are aware of the difficulties that the international match calendar presents and we remain open to finding solutions.

Premier League stated that the decision was taken in line with Fifa's current position of not extending its temporary release exception for international players who are required to quarantine upon their return from international duty.

The statement further stated that players would be "unavailable to prepare and play in two Premier League match round matches, a Uefa competition matchday, and the third round EFL Cup."

Fifa recently extended the September-October international windows by two more days in South America. This was done to allow countries to catch up with World Cup qualifiers that had been delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The governing body of world football said that the two-day extension allowed for "sufficient rest and preparation between matches". External-link

This means that matches can be played on Thursday 9 September and Thursday 14 October. Players involved will be released for 11 days.

They also discussed their dissatisfaction with the move at a meeting of Premier League clubs. This "places additional international obligation on players from that area, to detriment to their availability to represent their clubs".