The Islamic holy month is scheduled to begin this weekend, with Manchester City’s game against Plymouth on Saturday and Manchester United’s match against Fulham the ties that could be affected.

Muslims around the world will be fasting, meaning they abstain from consuming any food or drink during daylight hours.

The Football Association’s fifth-round fact sheet states: “Players observing Ramadan will be permitted a short pause in play to break their fast.

“An approximate time will be agreed when the pause will take place, and it will not be used as a team drinks break or tactical time-out.”

City’s game kicks-off at 17:45 GMT, with sunset taking place at 17:47, while United’s game is a 16:30 kick-off the following day and the sun setting at 17:49.

Players observing Ramadan will be permitted a short pause in play to break their fast. An approximate time will be agreed when the pause will take place, and it will not be used as a team drinks break or tactical time-out.

Muslim players that may be in action include City pair Omar Marmoush and Abdukodir Khuzanov, United defender Noussair Mazraoui and Fulham winger Adama Traore, while Plymouth manager Miron Muslic is also a Muslim.

City declined to comment and United have been contacted for comment by BBC Sport.

The Premier League have issued similar directives during Ramadan in recent years, with players breaking their fast during a natural stoppage in play, such as a goal-kick, free-kick or throw-in.

Ramadan is set to take place from 1 to 30 March this year, with an announcement due later on Friday to confirm the start.

The FA Cup quarter-finals will take place on the weekend of 29 and 30 March.