What will Premier League clubs do during the World Cup?

Next weekend will be the final set of Premier League fixtures before the mandatory break for the World Cup.

Whilst many clubs will lose stars to the tournaments, what about those who will not be involved?

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On the face of it, this is an ideal opportunity for players to get some rest, and give those carrying injuries a chance to recover.

But, while there will be an element of that some managers have already made it clear that they do not intend to rest on their laurels.

Arsenal, for example, have already announced that they intend to travel to Dubai for a warm-weather training camp. It also has the advantage of being close to Qatar, so if teams are knocked out of the World Cup early, they do not have far to travel to be reunited with their teammates again.

They are also looking to play three friendlies during the tournament, with one potential opponent being Ligue 1 Lyon, meaning a reunion with former striker Alexander Lacazette.

Liverpool are also heading to Dubai, and, like the Gunners, are in plans to play Lyon in a friendly. They could also be in line to play AC Milan whilst they are in the Middle East.

Rivals Manchester City are headed to Abu Dhabi, where the club’s owners are based. They have yet to finalise their plans completely, but a large complement of staff could fly out with them, as it’s seen as a good opportunity to give key backroom staff a break.

Star striker Erling Haaland may be given time off to spend time in his house in Marbella, but he has already been warned by manager Pep Guardiola that he needs to behave himself whilst he is in Spain.

Also travelling to Spain, after some time off first, are City’s Manchester neighbours United. Whilst there they will play friendly matches against Cadiz and Real Betis.

Newcastle United will be off to Saudi Arabia, a decision that has been criticised because of the country’s poor human rights record. Although the state-run investment firm owns a controlling share in the Premier League side, the club insist that the decision has been made for footballing reasons and that getting away from the distractions of England is the best thing for the team.

Leeds may buck the trend by heading west instead, with San Francisco a potential destination. They are looking to utilise the American connections with the club through manager Jesse Marsch and players like Tyler Adams.

Tottenham have yet to reveal their plans, although they too are likely to opt for a warm weather base. However, players will be given a minimum of ten or 14 days rest first, with manager Antonio Conte recently criticising football administrators for not caring about their welfare at all.

West Ham intend to remain in London but are planning to stage a mini-tournament at the London Stadium during the World Cup. It is expected to take place in December before the Premier League resumes, although possible opponents have not been revealed.