Controversial Club World Cup Could Impact Premier League Schedule

The Premier League may be forced to start a month later in 2025 to make way for the newly rebranded Club World Cup competition, according to Sky News. The tournament, spread across 29 days and organized by Fifa, could pose challenges for the Premier League as it would finish just four weeks before the start of the new season.

Manchester City and Chelsea Set to Participate

Manchester City and Chelsea are among the clubs set to participate in the rebranded Club World Cup in 2025. This could further complicate the Premier League schedule and potentially require a later start to the season.

Players' Union Calls for Mandatory Break

FIFPRO, the global players' union, has informed Fifa that footballers need a mandatory 28-day off-season break. This poses a dilemma for the Premier League as teams reaching the Club World Cup Final would have less time to prepare for the new domestic season.

Possible Delay to Ensure Players' Welfare

Premier League officials may have no choice but to push back the start of the season to accommodate the players' welfare. This could mean the campaign, typically beginning in August, would start a month later.

Concerns for 2026 World Cup

In addition to the challenges posed by the Club World Cup, the Premier League will also have to consider the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to start in June. Players will be required to join their national teams shortly after the Premier League season ends, adding further complications to the schedule.

Final Decision Expected at Fifa Council Meeting

The specific dates for the Club World Cup will be presented at a meeting of the Fifa Council on Sunday in Saudi Arabia. It is expected that all the details regarding the competition and its impact on the Premier League schedule will be finalized at this meeting.

Overall, the Premier League may have to make significant adjustments to its schedule in the coming years to accommodate both the Club World Cup and the 2026 World Cup.