A promise was made for no Premier League games to be scheduled the night before this season's FA Cup final but that has now been broken owing to Manchester United and Tottenham's European hopes
A promise not to schedule Premier League games the night before this month’s FA Cup final has been broken after Aston Villa's game against Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United's visit to Chelsea were both moved. The decision comes so both Spurs and United can be allowed additional and equal rest before the Europa League final four days later, which both are hopeful of reaching thanks to first leg leads.
In a statement confirming changes to this season’s Cup, the FA said last year: “The Emirates FA Cup Final will now take place on the penultimate weekend of the Premier League season, on an exclusive Saturday with no Premier League fixtures taking place on the same day.
“Additionally, there will be no Premier League games on the Friday night before the final, to allow focus on the build-up to the showpiece event.”
But Spurs’ visit to Villa, who are unhappy with the request for the game’s date to be changed, will now kick off at 7:30pm on Friday April 16, followed by Chelsea versus United at 8:15pm.
Crystal Palace and Manchester City only learnt of the kick-off time - 4.30pm - for their meeting at Wembley on Saturday following protracted negotiations involving broadcasters. Both Friday night games were initially set to take place alongside other Premier League matches on Sunday April 18.
And Villa’s director of football operations Damien Vidagany outlined their unhappiness in a post on social media. “Fixture changed and, honestly, not happy,” he wrote. “We really pushed to protect our fans (our main task and duty) and keep the Spurs match on Sunday. Nothing against Spurs.
"Considering the alternatives, (much worse on the Wednesday or Thursday) and the process conducted the final outcome is less damaging. At the end, it is what it is.
"Hopefully, in the future, all of them will remind us of the clear prejudice in this case to Villa fans and will be consistent and equally supportive, if we need changes to help us in Europe.”
Spurs lead Bodo/Glimt 3-1 following the first leg of their Europa League semi-final, while United won 3-0 away to Athletic Bilbao. Both return fixtures take place on Thursday night.
Chelsea are also set to progress to a European final having taken a 4-1 lead against Sweden's Djurgardens in the Conference League but that game does not take place until Wednesday, April 28.