Chelsea vs Manchester City in the FA Cup final takes centre stage this afternoon, but there are no Premier League fixtures today.
Fixtures across the penultimate weekend of the Premier League season has been staggered, kicking off with Liverpool’s trip to Aston Villa on Friday and concluding with a huge London derby between Chelsea and Tottenham at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night.
The Blues vs Spurs showdown and Man City’s visit to the Vitality Stadium to face Bournemouth - where the title race could be decided - have been rearranged because of the FA Cup final, and the Wembley showpiece is a big factor for not a single Premier League fixture taking place today.
In 2024, the Premier League and the FA (Football Association) struck and agreement that FA Cup final day would otherwise be known as a ‘Premier League-free day’ in order to preserve the magic of the cup.
"The Emirates FA Cup is our biggest asset and generates over 60 per cent of our revenue to invest into the game, so it is critical to secure a strong format for the future," FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said when the new agreement was reached.
"This new agreement between the FA and the Premier League strengthens the Emirates FA Cup and gives this very special tournament exclusive weekends in an increasingly busy calendar.
"The new schedule ensures the magic of the Cup is protected and enhanced, while working for the whole of the English game. The longer summer period also allows a much-needed player break before the start of the next season."
Instead of the usual Saturday scheduling in the Premier League, Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Everton, Leeds and West Ham are all in action on Sunday.
Then on Monday night, league leaders Arsenal welcome already-relegated Burnley to the Emirates Stadium, hoping to take a big step towards clinching the title.
