The ruling follows Barcelona, Schalke 04 and Werder Bremen decision to dispute FIFA, football’s world governing body, position that it was "mandatory" to release all players aged 23 or under.
In a statement to the press, FIFA president, Sepp Blatter, said that he was disappointed by the decision and appealed to clubs to allow their players to compete in the tournament. “FIFA is surprised and disappointed by this decision, but we respect it”, he said. “Nevertheless, I appeal to the clubs: ’Let your players take part in the Olympic Games! It would be an act of solidarity in perfect harmony with the Olympic spirit. It would be wonderful for the players, for the fans and for the game itself’.”
In response, German sides Schalke and Werder Bremen announced that they would allow their Brazilian players, Rafinha and Diego respectively, to feature for their countries. Barcelona has so far failed to make a similar concession for Argentina's Lionel Messi.
