Premier League has rescheduled December matches for Arsenal and Crystal Palace, moving their respective games against Everton and Leeds to ease fixture congestion ahead of their EFL Cup quarter-final and Crystal Palace’s European commitments.
The Premier League has confirmed the rescheduling of the Everton versus Arsenal match to Saturday evening following a request from the Gunners to ease their congested fixture list.
According to a report from BBC Sport, the Premier League has formally approved a change to the date of a high-profile fixture set to take place before Christmas.
The match between Everton and Arsenal will now be played on Saturday at 8pm, having been moved forward a day from its original slot.
This decision was made after Arsenal requested the alteration, citing the need to manage their schedule and avoid playing two matches in three days.
The club’s rationale for the change centered on player welfare and ensuring competitive fairness during a busy period in the football calendar.
The move impacts travel and preparation for both clubs, though Everton are understood to have cooperated with the Premier League’s request.
While the change has been confirmed, the Premier League acknowledged the collaborative nature required to implement such alterations during the season.
The fixture at Everton’s home ground will retain its scheduled broadcast slot, ensuring fans can still watch the game.
On the coordination required for the reshuffle, a statement, pulled from the Premier League’s communications regarding fixture alterations, indicated appreciation for the teams involved.
The statement confirmed the broadcast details, leaving the official quote intact:
“The Premier League would like to thank Everton and Leeds United for their co-operation in accommodating these changes. Both matches will remain live on Sky Sports in the UK.”