.png)
Supporters planning to attend Premier League matches during the 2025-26 season have been advised to prepare for possible last-minute fixture changes, following the confirmation that a record nine English clubs will compete in European competitions.
The Premier League has issued a cautionary statement, noting an "increased likelihood" that matches could be moved at "relatively short notice" should teams progress deep into their respective UEFA tournaments.
“While the Premier League celebrates this success, it will come with an impact on the scheduling of league matches,” the league said in a statement.
“There is an increased likelihood of Premier League fixtures moving at relatively short notice, after our fixture announcements, should our clubs progress to the knockout rounds of these competitions.”
The fixture list for the 2025-26 campaign was released on Wednesday, confirming Liverpool will open the season with a Friday night home clash against Bournemouth on 15 August.
The unprecedented number of English clubs in Europe includes Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, Newcastle and Tottenham in the Champions League. Aston Villa and Crystal Palace have earned Europa League berths, while Nottingham Forest will participate in the Conference League. However, Palace’s involvement is currently under scrutiny due to ownership-related issues.
This large contingent means fixture congestion is inevitable, as UEFA scheduling rules stipulate a minimum 48-hour rest period between matches. Clubs playing on Tuesdays in the Champions League, for example, cannot have domestic matches on the preceding Sunday. Similarly, Thursday night games in the Europa or Conference League impact the following weekend’s availability.
During the festive period, traditional dates such as Boxing Day and New Year’s Day remain flexible. Although no matches are currently scheduled for 26 December, some fixtures may still be moved to that date depending on television selections.
The Premier League also confirmed that no team will be asked to play twice within 48 hours over Christmas. However, the African Cup of Nations, set for 21 December to 18 January in Morocco, could leave several clubs without key players across six rounds of matches.
Looking ahead, the season will end on Sunday, 24 May, just 18 days before the 2026 World Cup kicks off in North America. That short turnaround highlights another potential strain on player welfare and planning.
For supporters, the potential for late fixture alterations presents practical challenges, particularly for those booking travel and accommodation in advance. The Premier League urged fans to factor this uncertainty into their planning:
“Supporters are asked to consider this when planning for Premier League fixtures, particularly when their club or opposition is playing in the latter stages of UEFA competitions.”
Featured Image Credit: Unsplash / James Kirkup, Pexels / Tembela Bohle
