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The first chapter of the 2026–27 season has wrapped up, with an international break now upon us.
We're usually treated to monthly interruptions at the start of fresh campaigns, as a packed international schedule takes over. FIFA is approaching things somewhat differently this time around, meaning fans will have plenty of time to reflect on the past five weeks.
There had been concerns about an almost one-sided Premier League, with champions Arsenal appearing ominously dominant at the top. However, their flawless record was tarnished by Brighton & Hove Albion before the break, hinting that the Gunners aren't quite as invincible as first thought.
Such conversations will be set aside for a while, as international soccer steps back into the spotlight.
National teams are gathering for the first time since the 2026 World Cup, and while some may use this window to reset and refocus, there will be plenty for soccer enthusiasts to sink their teeth into over the coming weeks.
Why is the Premier League Taking a Three-Week Break?
The Premier League will be absent for the next two weekends due to the extended international break, with fixtures resuming on Oct. 10. Arsenal open Matchday 6 by hosting an impressive Leeds United side at Emirates Stadium.
The FIFA Council resolved in 2023 to restructure the international calendar, meaning only three international breaks will take place this season. The September and October windows have effectively been combined into one longer break, with international fixtures continuing as normal in November and March.
Naturally, it isn't only the Premier League sitting out for three weeks. Club soccer across Europe has been placed on hold until the second weekend of October.
Who Is Playing During Extended International Break?
It's an especially hectic period for European nations, with the 2026–27 UEFA Nations League kicking off. Teams are playing four times during this window, and there are some mouth-watering clashes to watch out for.
In League A, there's a rematch of the Euro 2024 final between England and Spain on Sept. 26, while fierce rivals Germany and the Netherlands go head-to-head on Sept. 24. France host Italy on Oct. 2, and Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal clash with Erling Haaland's Norway on Oct. 4.
South American nations are in friendly action, with Argentina taking on Bolivia, Burkina Faso and Benin, while Brazil travel to Australia for two matches before heading on to India.
The USMNT has four fixtures, all on home turf. After facing CONMEBOL sides Peru and Chile, Mauricio Pochettino's men take on World Cup co-hosts and neighbors Canada and Mexico.