FIFA approves 26-player squads ahead of 2022 World Cup

FIFA has confirmed that managers can take 26-man squads to this year’s World Cup in Qatar.

They will also be able to use up to five substitutes in a game.

Before now, countries were only allowed to name 23 players in their squads.

But that number has been increased due to concerns over player welfare since the COVID-19 pandemic.

For players participating at the World Cup, the final date they will be allowed to play for their clubs before the tournament kicks off is November 13.

The last set of Premier League fixtures takes place on November 12.

During matches, no more than 26 people (up to 15 substitutes and 11 team officials) will be allowed to sit on the team bench.

One of those officials must be the team doctor.