CAF seeks British Government’s quarantine exemptions for African Premier League stars travelling to red-list countries


CAF has asked the British Government for quarantine exemptions so British clubs will release players for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers in African red-list countries.
A number of countries in Europe — particular the ones that make up Britain — say they will prevent their players from traveling to red-list countries during the FIFA window.
Under British government rules, players would miss several games because of the ten-day isolation period that is required on their return to Britain.
Nigeria’s opponents for September 7’s World Cup qualifying game, Cape Verde, are among the nations currently on the British Government’s “red” list regarding travel to England, meaning a ten-day period of hotel isolation would be required before Super Eagles players who make the trip to Praia can return to their clubs.

If the restrictions are not lifted, that would mean the likes of William Troost-Ekong, Wilfred Ndidi, Kelechi Iheanacho and Alex Iwobi will miss the game against the Blue Sharks.
It would also imply that Liverpool star Mohamed Salah will be unavailable for Egypt’s home clashes with Angola and Libya, as the north African nation are also named among the red-list countries.
In a letter to the British government, CAF appealed that exemptions — similar to the ones given delegations and officials at the 2020 European Championship finals — be granted African players so they could represent their countries during the qualifiers.
Fifa president Gianni Infantino has made a similar request.
“I have suggested an approach similar to the final stages of Euro 2020 be implemented,” said Infantino.
“We have faced global problems together in the past and must continue to do so in the future,” he added.
“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.
“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.”

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