Premier League managers have backed the clubs’ decision not to release players for matches in red-list countries during September’s international break.
Under current UK government rules, players would be forced to miss several games because of the 10-day isolation period required on return to the UK.
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said it “made no sense” to release players.
“We pay the players, to go and play three games and then play Leicester [in the Premier League] is not possible.”
He added: “They are isolated with no training for one week, 10 days, so it is no sense.
“We have to say again today what is the position of the club and the Premier League because it is not just Manchester City. It is a problem of the calendar and the schedule.”
The Premier League and the Football Association held talks with the government about the possibility of granting players an exemption but failed to find a solution, with clubs “reluctantly but unanimously” deciding not to release players as a result.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp says the prospect of 10 days’ quarantine for his players on their return would put their fitness at risk.
“When players go on international duty, for club managers it’s not great but we still always do it, we never moan,” he said. “In this case it is different because England has different rules.
“The rules in England are if you come back from a red-list country you have to quarantine for 10 days in a hotel. Not a hotel of your choice, a hotel of somebody else’s choice, next to the airport of wherever. And it’s not even close to being a spa hotel. It’s eating and waiting and sleeping.
“As the club we cannot do that, not just because we lose them for games but we also lose them for 10 days training. Ask any doctor or sports scientist, without any chance of moving you lose muscle. Then you start training again and it’s a real risk”
Aston Villa boss Dean Smith said it was a difficult situation for organisers, but that he did not think footballers should be exempt from the current rules.
“This pandemic has put us in a position where they’d have to quarantine in a government hotel and detrain,” he said.
“The World Cup qualifiers have to be played at some time. Its difficult but I don’t think you can make exceptions for football players. It’s way above my pay grade.”
Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira added: “I think all the managers and all the clubs are waiting to see what the decision is. It will be difficult for us to allow our players to go to international duty if that country is in the red zone.”
Premier League bosses were also unhappy with Fifa’s decision to extend the September and October international windows by two days in South America to enable countries to catch up on World Cup qualifiers that were postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
It means matches can now be played on Thursday, 9 September and Thursday, 14 October, with players involved being released for 11 days.
Because of the time difference, players involved in those games may not return to their clubs until Saturday, 11 September, when eight Premier League matches are scheduled to take place.
East Ham, East London — 8 August 2026: The vibrant Igbo community in the UK came together for an unforgettable evening of entertainment, culture and social connection at Igbotic Game Night, one of the biggest social gatherings celebrating the Igbo community in the United Kingdom.
Among the night’s standout moments was an electrifying performance by Afrobeats artist Obeena, who took the stage and immediately captured the attention of the crowd.
Obeena delivered performances of two of his hit songs, “Wara Wara” and “Banging,” bringing his energetic sound and distinctive stage presence to the event. From the opening moments of his set, fans responded with excitement, singing along, dancing and enthusiastically supporting the artist.
His performance of “Wara Wara” created an instant connection with the audience, while “Banging” took the energy to another level. Obeena’s ability to engage the crowd transformed his set into one of the most memorable entertainment moments of the evening.
Held in East Ham, East London, on 8 August 2026, Igbotic Game Night provided a unique platform for members of the Igbo community to celebrate their heritage while enjoying music, games and social interaction. Events such as this continue to play an important role in bringing together Nigerians and the wider African diaspora in the UK.
For Obeena, the performance was another opportunity to showcase his growing artistry and connect directly with fans. His energetic delivery, stage confidence and ability to command the audience demonstrated why his live performances continue to attract attention.
By the end of his set, Obeena had left the crowd amazed and added another memorable chapter to his journey as an Afrobeats artist. His appearance at Igbotic Game Night was not simply a performance—it was a celebration of Nigerian music, culture and community.
With performances like this, Obeena continues to demonstrate his ambition to take his sound beyond the studio and onto major stages, connecting with audiences through music, energy and an unmistakable African identity.
Igbotic Game Night brought the Igbo community together. Obeena gave them a performance to remember.
Audio
KenryWhite Releases “Kilometers” & “The King” A Powerful Double Release Celebrating Faith, Purpose, and the Journey to Greatness
Nigerian Afrofusion artist KenryWhite unveils his compelling two-track release, “Kilometers & The King,” a project that explores the realities of life’s journey while affirming identity, faith, and purpose.
Leading the release is “Kilometers,” an uplifting anthem that reflects on the distance between dreams and fulfillment. Through heartfelt lyrics, captivating melodies, and vibrant Afrobeats production, KenryWhite encourages listeners to embrace the process, remain resilient, and keep moving forward despite life’s challenges.
Complementing the project is “The King,” featuring Wonder J. The record is a bold declaration of confidence, royalty, and divine purpose, blending infectious Afrobeats rhythms with inspiring lyricism. Together, the duo delivers a record that celebrates self-belief, leadership, and the mindset required to overcome every obstacle.
With rich storytelling, memorable melodies, and contemporary African sounds, “Kilometers & The King” showcases KenryWhite’s artistic growth while delivering music that inspires, motivates, and connects with audiences across the globe.
Now available on all major streaming platforms, “Kilometers & The King” invites listeners to embrace the journey, recognize their worth, and walk confidently into their purpose.
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