Manchester United Submits Fixture Request to Premier League Amid Rising Concerns
Manchester United has initiated discussions with the Premier League regarding their upcoming fixture list due to increasing concerns. They are set to face Brighton & Hove Albion this Saturday, marking their sole home game during the weekend from October 5 to December 25.
Fixture Rescheduling and Concerns
In December, the schedules for four of United’s matches were altered following broadcast announcements from the Premier League. Over the 12-week period from October 5 to December 25, the club has three consecutive midweek home games against Everton, West Ham, and Bournemouth.
- The match against Wolverhampton Wanderers, originally scheduled for December 6, will now occur on December 8 at 8 PM.
- United’s home match against Newcastle United is tentatively planned for Boxing Day, pending confirmation.
Omar Berrada, Manchester United’s CEO, has held talks with Premier League chief Richard Masters to address these scheduling issues. The conversation focused on the density of midweek games, and the club has asked for adjustments to ensure future fixtures, especially around the festive season, are announced earlier.
Impact on Future Fixtures
Manchester United had also planned to organize a mid-season friendly in Saudi Arabia, aimed at alleviating financial pressures from their failure to qualify for European competitions. However, the new fixture schedule poses challenges for these plans, complicating arrangements for additional matches.
During their post-season tour in Asia, United generated approximately £7.8 million through matches against regional teams. Berrada emphasized the significance of such friendlies, stating, “These fixtures drive significant additional revenue, enabling the club to invest in success on the pitch.”
As Manchester United prepares for their match against Brighton at Old Trafford, the club continues to navigate the complexities of scheduling while striving to maintain strong connections with fans and partners globally.
