Premier League Decline to Release Players for International Assignments

The Egyptian football team
The Egypt football team trainin ahead of their clash with Harambee Stars
PHOTO:
Courtesy
Egypt FA

English Premier League clubs on Monday resolved to not realising players  for international matches played in red-list countries during the next international break.

The decision will apply to nearly 60 players from 19 Premier League clubs who are due to travel to 26 red-list countries in the September international window.

This move follows FIFA’s current position not to extend its temporary release exception for players required to quarantine on their return from international duty.

"Premier League clubs have always supported their players' desires to represent their countries - this is a matter of pride for all concerned," said Premier League chief executive Richard Masters.

"However, clubs have reluctantly but rightly come to the conclusion that it would be entirely unreasonable to release players under these new circumstances.

"Quarantine requirements mean that players' welfare and fitness will be significantly impacted. We understand the challenges that exist in the international match calendar and remain open to workable solutions."

The statement also detailed that a period of quarantine would mean players with many being unavailable for two rounds of Premier League match  rounds, one round of UEFA club competitions and the third round of the EFL Cup.