Source: REUTERS/Phil Noble
[Saba Sports News] According to British media, Manchester City requested a postponement of the new Premier League season’s start time due to their participation in the new Club World Cup during this week’s Premier League meeting, but faced opposition from the other 19 teams. Reportedly, Manchester CEO made this request during the shareholders’ meeting on Thursday, but it was denied. After the meeting, a senior official from one of the teams pointed out that there is no obligation for teams to participate in the World Cup, and that participating in the event can yield significant financial rewards. Manchester City and Chelsea will participate in the Club World Cup to be held in the U.S. this summer, and the final of the World Cup is only 34 days away from the start date of the next season’s Premier League on August 16, with only 27 days until the Community Shield. This significantly shortens player rest time. Furthermore, the Premier League explained why clubs are not allowed to postpone the start of the season: “This has been imposed by FIFA, particularly their requirement for us to participate in this event. We do not agree with this tournament, so why should we adjust our league?” The current schedule is already the most compact, and there can be no further delays in starting the season.