On Wednesday, Premier League clubs will discuss planned changes to both the League Cup and FA Cup.
The Premier League shareholders’ meeting aims to address congestion in the schedule for Premier League teams. This is particularly true for those in European competition. Also, in 2022, there are more games with the World Cup taking away more than a month in November and December.
The remedy for dealing with gaming congestion is to get rid of replays, among other concepts.
Meanwhile, Premier League clubs don’t want to scrap the League Cup, also known as the Carabao Cup, entirely. However, they understand the strain it puts on teams, just like the FA Cup.
Watch the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup
Includes: Bundesliga, La Liga and more
explore offers
Consequently, there are potential changes in play, aside from the cancellation of replays.
Possible changes from the Premier League to the League Cup and FA Cup
The mentioned changes would start in 2024/25, with the calendar already drawn up before that date. In addition, the proposed remedies would also stop replays in the FA Cup third and fourth rounds. At this time of year, Premier League clubs often participate in European competitions and the League Cup, adding more games to the calendar.
On the subject of clubs in European competition, part of the proposal is that clubs that participate in European competition would have two options for the League Cup. These clubs may play U21 teams in the League Cup or may not play in the tournament. Compare this to Liverpool, who fielded an under-21 team while the main squad competed in the 2019 FIFA Club World Cup.
The Times newspaper report also mentions that a higher number of Champions League games from 2024 makes the challenge more difficult.
The Premier League clubs are not likely to make any kind of decision on Wednesday. There is still a lot up in the air. In addition, clubs must also discuss how to increase profit sharing with clubs at lower levels, something in which the government comes into play.
This meeting is more to establish the general sense of the position of the Premier League clubs on a variety of issues.
PHOTO: Imago / Pro Sports Images
