Players in the Premier League won't be released to represent their nations next month if their country is on the government's red list.
Manchester United and Manchester City were facing the possibility of missing key players from their squads after the international break because of quarantine rules, but Premier League clubs have now 'unanimously' moved to prevent that outcome.
The clubs' decision, which is said to be 'strongly supported' by the Premier League as an organisation, will mean nearly 60 players from 19 first division sides who were previously due to travel to 26 red-list countries in the September international window will now stay in England.
United and City have players in their respective squads who represent Brazil and Uruguay and both of those countries are red-listed.
“Premier League clubs have always supported their players’ desires to represent their countries – this is a matter of pride for all concerned," Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said on the decision.
"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."
