Football Federation Australia (FFA) today announced that it will not be proceeding with plans to assemble national team squads in Europe in November 2020 due to the ongoing and evolving risks associated with COVID-19.
Over past months, FFA has undertaken scenario planning for numerous match and/or training camp options in Europe for both the Socceroos and Westfield Matildas to enable the players, together with their coaches and support staff, to assemble in the final FIFA window of 2020.
Regrettably, the ongoing and worsening COVID-19 landscape across Europe has provided complexities and risks to assemble players from across Europe and Asia and, following the latest advice from medical professionals, FFA will not be proceeding with activities in Europe at this time.
As of late last week, plans for the Socceroos to play two international friendly matches in London next month were well advanced, and were close to being announced. The proposed fixtures were in line with FFA’s ambition, as outlined in the XI Principles for the future of Australian football, to play top global opponents to maximise player exposure and capture the hearts and minds of fans.
FFA is committed to ensuring Australia’s national teams at all levels return to action as soon as possible, however ensuring the health and wellbeing of players and staff remains FFA’s foremost priority.
