As many as 20 clubs have decided not to allow their players to play international matches in Covid-19 red-list countries next month, the Premier League has announced.
Around 60 players from several PL clubs were scheduled to travel to 26 red-list countries in September for international matches however, now all these clubs have unanimously decided that they won’t release their players.
Meanwhile, these clubs’ decision has got the support of the PL.
“Extensive discussions have taken place with both The FA and the Government to find a solution, but due to ongoing public health concerns relating to incoming travellers from red-list countries, no exemption has been granted,” the PL said in a statement.
Under the current rules in the UK, any person arriving from red-list countries will have to serve 10 days of hotel quarantine due to which the players will be forced to miss few matches when they returned from abroad.
After the development, Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus, goalkeeper and Liverpool’s Ederson Alisson Becker, Fabinho and Roberto Firmino along with Leeds United’s Raphinha will not be able to play for their country – Brazil in a home affair against Argentina in the World Cup qualifiers in September.
“Premier League clubs have always supported their players’ desires to represent their countries — this is a matter of pride for all concerned. However, clubs have reluctantly but rightly come to the conclusion that it would be entirely unreasonable to release players under these new circumstances,” said PL Chief Executive Richard Masters.
“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,” he added.