FIFA has given clubs extra time with players heading to the Africa Cup of Nations, allowing them to postpone their release until December 15, Sky Sports reports.
Originally, teams were required to free their players two weeks before the tournament kicks off on December 21 in Morocco. With the new adjustment, Premier League and other European sides will be able to use their African players during the fixtures scheduled for the weekend of December 13–14.
This development offers significant relief to several top clubs. Liverpool will now be able to field Mohamed Salah in their game against Brighton, while Manchester City may still have Omar Marmoush available for their clash with Crystal Palace.
The situation is less straightforward for Manchester United, who play Bournemouth on Monday, December 15. It is still uncertain whether Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui will be permitted to play, as the updated national team reporting deadline falls on the same day.
The revised rule is intended to better balance club responsibilities with international preparations ahead of an important tournament for African nations. More details on player availability are expected soon as clubs and national associations finalize travel plans.