The Premier League’s decision to reschedule Chelsea’s upcoming match against Wolverhampton Wanderers for Christmas Eve has faced huge disapproval from both Chelsea’s Supporters Trust (CST) and the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA).
This decision is a huge letdown from the traditional festive football schedule, as the last Premier League match played on Christmas Eve was in 1995.
The Wolves vs. Chelsea match, originally set for December 23, has been rescheduled to December 24, with a 1 p.m. GMT kickoff time.
This decision has sparked serious criticism among football fans and supporters who attend matches in person.
The Chelsea Supporters Trust (CST) voiced their strong disapproval through a statement released on X, deeming the scheduling completely unacceptable.
Wolves v Chelsea will the first #PL fixture be played on Christmas Eve since 1995.
CST Comment ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/dBG62VbNes
— Chelsea Supporters’ Trust⭐️⭐️ (@ChelseaSTrust) October 26, 2023
They also expressed concerns about potential staffing issues at Molineux, the Wolves’ home ground, and the inconvenience this decision may cause for fans who planned to attend the match, as holiday transport schedules could pose obstacles for those wishing to travel.
The CST has expressed their strong support for the fans’ trust in both clubs in their joint resistance to Christmas Eve fixtures.
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The Wolves Supporters Trust had previously voiced their displeasure with the scheduling, emphasizing the total disregard and disrespect shown to the fans.
This sentiment has now been echoed by the CST, FSA, and other fan groups who share the belief that the festive season should be a time for celebration and unity, rather than marred by disruptions and inconveniences.
The Premier League’s decision to reschedule such fixtures has ignited a talk regarding the struggle between catering to television broadcasters’ demands and preserving the sport’s traditions and the well-being of its devoted fans.
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The future remains uncertain, as it’s unclear whether the outcry will lead to a reconsideration of the controversial scheduling or if Christmas Eve football will establish itself as a new norm in the Premier League.
