Reports indicate that the Premier League is encountering backlash regarding the latest round of rescheduled fixtures. Some clubs are reportedly expressing concerns and even questioning the integrity of the title race due to these alterations.
The Premier League unveiled the live television broadcast schedule for the final two gameweeks in April, alongside rescheduling six previously postponed fixtures. Among the announcements, some intriguing fixture quirks emerged, notably with Tottenham Hotspur enjoying a 15-day break leading up to the highly anticipated north London derby on Sunday, April 28th.
What are the fixture changes?
However, the timing of this fixture could potentially be subject to change should Arsenal progress to the Champions League semi-finals. This scheduling discrepancy is particularly notable as it falls within an intensely packed run of games for Arsenal, who are slated to play four matches during Tottenham’s period of rest.
According to The Mirror, the scheduling decisions, including the north London derby, have sparked indignation among clubs, with some questioning the “integrity” of the fixture list. Concerns have been raised that such scheduling could potentially have a significant impact on the outcome of the title race.
Another notable fixture clash is Liverpool’s visit to Goodison Park for the Merseyside derby on Wednesday, April 24, followed by a quick turnaround for a Saturday lunchtime kickoff against West Ham. This short interval between games has raised eyebrows, highlighting potential concerns over fixture congestion.
Moreover, there’s a possibility that the fixture between Liverpool and West Ham could be rescheduled if Tottenham Hotspur face Arsenal in the Champions League semi-finals, resulting in the north London derby taking the Saturday lunchtime TV slot instead.
Which clubs have an advantage?
The scheduling uncertainty surrounding Liverpool and Arsenal stands in contrast to the situation faced by title rivals Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s team has been fortunate to avoid potential fixture congestion, notably with the postponement of their match against Tottenham Hotspur due to their involvement in the FA Cup semi-final.
In recent reports from Sports Buddy Erling Haaland already sets his sight focused on Manchester City’s fixture as he deems it more important to keep another Treble hope alive.
While the postponed Premier league fixture against Tottenham could have been rescheduled for the week preceding the north London derby, which would have reduced their break before facing Arsenal, the Premier league decision was made to slot City’s other postponed match against Brighton into that timeframe. Consequently, Manchester City will face Brighton on Thursday, April 25th, maintaining their strategic advantage in the title race.
