The Premier League is finally back after 100 days off due to COVID-19 ... and the players made a profound statement at kick-off by taking a knee to honor George Floyd.
All players for Aston Villa and Sheffield United -- as well as the referees -- participated in the demonstration on Wednesday ... showing solidarity with the fight against police brutality and social injustice.
Along with taking a knee, all players are wearing "Black Lives Matter" on the back of their jerseys.
The EPL acknowledged the gesture on Twitter ... saying, "There is #NoRoomForRacism, anywhere.