Premier League Confirms 2025/26 Schedule Despite Guardiola’s Plea
The Premier League has officially announced the schedule for the 2025/26 season, rejecting a request from Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola to delay the start. The decision has sparked frustration at City due to its potential impact on their preparations following their involvement in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup.
Key Dates for the 2025/26 Season
Start Date: Saturday, 16 August 2025
Final Day: Sunday, 24 May 2026 (simultaneous kick-off times for all matches)
The schedule provides a designated three-week rest period for players before pre-season begins.
Guardiola’s Request Denied
Guardiola had requested a two- or three-week delay to the start of the Premier League season, citing the congested calendar caused by the Club World Cup.
Club World Cup Final: Scheduled for 13 July 2025 in the USA at MetLife Stadium, leaving only five weeks before the Premier League season begins.
Guardiola’s reaction:
"Thank you so much. The Premier League say yes to us? No. Absolutely not."
This decision means City players will have minimal recovery and preparation time after competing in the international tournament.
Why the Premier League Refused
The Premier League justified their decision based on their lack of control over FIFA’s international calendar and the need to ensure the domestic schedule aligns with other global leagues.
The expanded Club World Cup adds significant strain to the calendar, but FIFA's control over the tournament leaves leagues like the Premier League unable to adjust their timelines.
City and Chelsea will represent England in the tournament due to their recent Champions League victories.
Impact on Liverpool and Other Clubs
While City faces challenges balancing their domestic and international commitments, Liverpool, currently leading the Premier League by five points, could see this as an opportunity to capitalize on potential fatigue in their rivals.
The decision to maintain a three-week player rest period is likely to benefit clubs like Liverpool, who are not involved in the Club World Cup.
What’s Next?
City and Chelsea will need to carefully manage their squads during the demanding 2025 summer schedule, while other Premier League clubs, including title contenders like Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester United, may have an edge due to better recovery and preparation time. Guardiola’s frustrations highlight the ongoing tensions between club commitments and the increasingly packed international football calendar.
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