Manchester City have found little sympathy in their bid to delay the start of the 2025-26 Premier League season, as their domestic rivals dismissed concerns over fixture congestion. The club had formally requested a postponement due to their involvement in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup, but both the Premier League and other clubs have made it clear: City must stick to the schedule.
The reigning English champions, along with Chelsea, are set to participate in the expanded Club World Cup in the United States. With the tournament’s final scheduled just over a month before the Premier League’s return, City argued that the demanding fixture list could leave their players fatigued and put them at a competitive disadvantage. However, their pleas have been met with little sympathy, with rival club executives reportedly telling them to “stop complaining” and pointing out that participation in the tournament is completely voluntary.
At a recent Premier League shareholders’ meeting, City’s chief executive, Ferran Soriano, attempted to rally support for a delayed start to the season. However, representatives from other clubs were unimpressed. According to reports, the discussion was swiftly dismissed, with one executive emphasizing that there is no requirement for clubs to take part in the Club World Cup.
Premier League chief football officer Tony Scholes reinforced the league’s stance, stating that a season delay is simply not an option due to an already packed football calendar. “The schedule is tighter than ever, and we cannot accommodate a later start,” Scholes explained. “This is something City and Chelsea will have to manage themselves, but it cannot impact the rest of the league.”
This response highlights a growing sentiment among clubs that City and Chelsea should not expect special treatment. Many argue that if playing in the Club World Cup creates scheduling conflicts, then the clubs should simply opt out instead of expecting the Premier League to rearrange its calendar to accommodate them.
While City and Chelsea will face fixture congestion, their participation in the Club World Cup is far from an act of charity. The tournament, backed by a reported £1 billion broadcasting deal with DAZN, is expected to generate massive financial rewards. Both clubs stand to earn £50-£60 million just for participating—a figure far beyond what most Premier League teams will receive.
Critics argue that City’s complaints ring hollow given the financial windfall at stake. While fixture congestion is a valid concern, other clubs see this as the price they must pay for competing on a global stage.
