After a meeting on May 1st, the Premier League said they hope to resume the 2019-20 season but also explained that no steps will be taken without government approval.
The English top flight’s clubs met on May 1st to discuss steps forward but no decisions were made.
“At a meeting of Premier League Shareholders today, clubs discussed possible steps towards planning to resume the 2019-20 season, when it is safe and appropriate to do so,” a statement read.
“It was reiterated that the thoughts of all are with those directly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, the Premier League’s priority is the health and safety of players, coaches, managers, club staff, supporters and the wider community.
The League and clubs are considering the first tentative moves forward and will only return to training and playing with Government guidance, under expert medical advice and after consultation with players and managers.
The League welcomed the creation of the Government medical working group for a return of elite sport, which met for the first time this morning.
No decisions were taken at today’s Shareholders’ meeting and clubs exchanged views on the information provided regarding ‘Project Restart.’
It was agreed that the PFA, LMA, players and managers are key to this process and will be further consulted.
The clubs reconfirmed their commitment to finishing the 2019-20 season, maintaining integrity of the competition and welcomed the Government’s support.”
On April 30th the Premier League shared the guidelines for “Project Restart” and explained that they’re targeting a potential June 8th return.
As part of the guidelines that everyone involved has to follow, the players will have to wear face masks at training grounds and all equipment, including the footballs, will be disinfected before and after use.
Manchester City star striker Sergio Aguero recently shared that players scared about a Premier League return. The targeted June 8th return date requires players to be back in full training by May 18th.
The Premier League was suspended on March 13 because of COVID-19 but all the teams remain committed to playing the 92 games remaining on the calendar.
All the games would held behind closed doors and the Premier League is considering making some available on free-to-air TV.
