For the first time in the era of the Premier League, on December 26, there is only one game on the schedule, and that is the duel between Manchester United and Newcastle United.
The break in the centuries-old tradition surprised many, considering that this date is usually reserved for the complete circuit.
Why did the change occur?
The Premier League clarified that the decision on only one game was made due to an extremely tight schedule and obligations under television rights contracts. As December 26 falls on a Friday this year, and the league has committed to 33 match weekends and is facing an extended European season, the only available broadcast slot on that day was the match at Old Trafford.
All other matches of the 18th round of the Premier League have been moved to Saturday and Sunday, December 27 and 28. Although this situation violates a long-standing custom, the league management assures the fans that this is an exception.
They have confirmed that whenever Boxing Day falls on a weekend in future seasons, a richer fixture schedule will return. This means that we will be back to the old ways next season because December 26, 2026 falls on a Saturday.
(Vijesti.ba)
