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Premier League clubs have united in contempt of Fifa and refused to release players for international assignments in countries on the UK’s red list.
Escalating quarantine restrictions and lack of exemptions for players returning from red zone countries have led Premier League clubs “reluctantly but unanimously” to decide to take action during a meeting Tuesday. The Premier League, which has supported the clubs’ position, has also expressed concern over Fifa’s decision to allow Conmebol teams to play three matches in the next two international breaks.
On Monday, the Egyptian federation revealed that it had received a letter from Liverpool explaining why Mohamed Salah would not be released for the World Cup qualifying match against Angola in Cairo next week. Liverpool have also informed the Brazilian FA that Alisson, Fabinho and Roberto Firmino will not be released for their World Cup qualifiers against Chile, Argentina and Peru as they and Salah are expected to be quarantined for 10 days at their return. Manchester City had taken the same position with Ederson and Gabriel Jesus.
Nearly 60 players from 19 Premier League clubs were due to travel to 26 red zone countries in the international window in September.
In a statement, the Premier League confirmed the decision “following Fifa’s current position not to extend its temporary release exception for players required to self-quarantine upon return from international service,” adding: “Discussions There were extensive discussions with the FA and the government to find a solution, but due to persistent public health concerns regarding inbound travelers from Red List countries, no exemptions were granted.
“If it was necessary to quarantine on the return of Red List countries, not only the well-being and fitness of the players would be significantly affected, but they would also be unavailable to prepare and play in two rounds of the match. of the Premier League, a matchday of UEFA club competition and the third round of the EFL Cup. This period takes into account 10 days of hotel quarantine upon return to England, but does not include additional time that would be required for players to regain their physical shape. “
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said: “Premier League clubs have always supported their players’ desire to represent their country – this is a matter of pride for all concerned. However, the clubs reluctantly but rightly came to the conclusion that it would be utterly unreasonable to release players under these new circumstances. We understand the challenges that exist in the international match calendar and remain open to viable solutions. “
The clubs have also expressed their “dissatisfaction” with the decision of Fifa to extend the international window of Conmebol in September and October from nine to eleven days. “This imposes additional international obligations on players in this region, to the detriment of their availability to represent their clubs,” the Premier League statement read. “Fifa has been called on to work with all stakeholders to ensure that an acceptable conclusion can be reached on the matter.”
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