FIFA President Calls on EU Federations to Release Players for World Cup Qualifiers

Zurich, August 25 (QNA) - FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday called on the European federations to "show solidarity" in light of the player release dispute for the upcoming qualifiers for the World Cup Qatar 2022 in September. On Tuesday, the English top-flight said it would stop individuals from featuring for countries on the UK government's red list, meaning a quarantine on return, for September's matches. Spain's La Liga said it would back its clubs in stopping players from leaving during the windows in September and October. "I am calling on a show of solidarity from every member association, every league, and every club, to do what is both right and fair for the global game," Infantino said in a statement. "Many of the best players in the world compete in leagues in England and Spain, and we believe these countries also share the responsibility to preserve and protect the sporting integrity of competitions around the world," he added. Infantino said he had contacted British authorities after England loosened COVID-19 regulations during Euro 2020 in June and July. "I have suggested that an approach similar to that adopted by the UK government for the final stages of the Euro 2020 be implemented for the upcoming international matches. Now, I am urging everyone to ensure the release of international players for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers," he said. (QNA)