In an unfortunate ruling the Court of Arbitration of Sport noted that teams cannot be forced to allow their players to participate in the Olympics because it was not part of the official futbol calender noting:

"no specific decision of the Fifa executive committee establishing the obligation for the clubs to release players under 23 for this tournament".

CAS did state:

"Cas calls upon the goodwill and the good sense of Fifa and the clubs to find a reasonable solution with regard to players who wish to represent their country in the Olympic Games."

FIFA reacted with disappointment and respect:

"Fifa is surprised and disappointed by this decision, but we respect it.

"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."

I am upset that the clubs are trying to keep under 23's from playing at the Olympics and hope that they reconsider the decision to challenge the participation of players like Messi and Diego.

What do you think?

Should clubs let their under 23 players go to the Olympics if selected?