The Premier League officially stated that all the league clubs have “reluctantly but unanimously” decided not to release players to play matches in the countries which are on the red list of the UK for the international break starting from next month.

According to the government guidelines of the UK, anyone who returns from the red-listed country will have to be quarantined for 10 days which means that the returning player would be potentially missing club games.

The Premier League disclosed that at least 60 players from 19 different clubs will be affected by these quarantine protocols who had earlier been informed of traveling to 26 different red-listed countries.

Argentina, Egypt, and Brazil are among the UK red list nations, which means that star players like Mohamed Saleh and Alisson from Liverpool and Ederson and Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City would be getting affected by this new safety measure.

The Premier League stated that clubs fully supported its decision as it comes as a response to the world football governing body FIFA which has decided not to grant an extension to the temporary release for the player off to nations that require quarantine on return from their international commitments.

The Premier League stated,

“extensive discussions have taken place with both the FA and the government to find a solution but that no exemption had been granted.”

Richard Masters, the chief executive of the Premier League stated

“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.”

He also stated

“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.”

Spanish league LA Liga has also announced that it will follow the suite of Premier League and will completely support the member clubs if they refuse to release their players for the upcoming South American qualifiers.

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