Premier League to block internationals from Brazil, Argentina, Mexico due to COVID-19 'red list'

Players will not be able to play matches in countries the U.K. government deem to be high risk

Players including Mohamed Salah, Richarlison and Raul Jimenez will miss key international games next month after Premier League clubs agreed they will not release anyone for games played in the United Kingdom's red list countries.

Those travelling from the 26 countries -- which are predominantly in South and Central America, Africa and Asia -- are required to quarantine in a hotel for 10 days upon arrival. As such, Premier League footballers who joined up with their national sides in September would be unable to play in two rounds of top flight games, the EFL Cup third round and the opening matchday of European fixtures.

Among the nations on the United Kingdom's red list are South American footballing powerhouses Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay, all of whom will play World Cup qualifiers next month. Similarly, the second round of African qualifying matches kicks off next month, but Mohamed Salah will be unable to play in Egypt's home qualifier against Angola. Liverpool have indicated they would be prepared to allow him to face Gabon, a country on the U.K.'s amber list.

The Premier League said "extensive discussions" with the government over securing an exemption for the near 60 footballers from 19 clubs had ultimately proven unsuccessful. Chief executive Richard Masters added: "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.

"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."

The league's decision could have a significant impact on some of the biggest games in the international calendar, not least the meeting of Brazil and Argentina in Sao Paulo on Sept. 18. The hosts would be without nine players including a string of key starters whilst Argentina would have to do without a quartet from Tottenham and Aston Villa.

The USA are not on the U.K.'s red list, meaning Christian Pulisic and Josh Sargent will be eligible to join up with Gregg Berhalter's squad.