THE first international break of the season arrives with one major change that will leave fans without club football for THREE weeks.

Traditionally, has used five two-week gaps during the season in March, June, September, October and November.

France v England: Bronze Final - FIFA World Cup 2026England will feature for the first time since the World Cup this month Credit: Getty Arsenal FC v Real Betis Balompie - Pre-Season FriendlyThe Premier League will pause for three weeks for the first international break of the season Credit: Getty

During this time, national teams participate in qualifying competitions or friendly matches.

This season, international breaks will look different for the first time in years as the September and October breaks have been merged.

Countries will play four matches during this period instead of two, as many nations feature for the first time since the .

brings you the lowdown on the reason for the extended international break below.

Why is the international break three weeks long?

The first international break of the season has been extended for several reasons.

A key factor was that the 2026 World Cup final had the latest date for a summer World Cup since 1966, with beating on July 19.

Player welfare was also a major influence on Fifa’s decision, which was unanimously approved in 2023.

Fewer international breaks will reduce the number of separate journeys where players fly across continents for their nation’s international matches.

For example, several African and South American players play in Europe and have to travel from one continent to another for their international commitments.

The change will ultimately mean less disruption between the start of the season and the end of the year, as there are now only two breaks instead of three.

The first international break will last 16 days, starting on September 21 and returning on October 6.

trip to on September 20 is the final top-flight fixture before the break.

Champions host Leeds on October 10 as the returns.

When are the international breaks this season?

Here are the key dates for the 2026/27 season:

  • September 21 to October 6 (countries to play four matches)
  • November 9 to November 17 (countires to play two matches)
  • March 22 to March 30 (countries to play two matches)