Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola admits the international retirement of Fernandinho and David Silva is a big bonus.
Silva has formally retired, while Fernandinho has asked not to be considered for selection by Brazil.
For Silva and Fernandinho, aged 32 and 33 respectively, the lack of international football could be a blessing for City, Guardiola believes.
"They have one or two more years contract. They should take day by day, season by season and ask themselves if they enjoy or they want to play," he said. "They have to decide for themselves if they are tired and they retire.
"It's the best job in the world and if you are still hungry you have to play. In the end, they have to decide."