Premier League Approves Arsenal’s Request to Reschedule Everton Clash After Arteta’s Fixture Congestion Complaint

The Premier League has approved Arsenal’s request to reschedule their fixture against Everton, following Mikel Arteta’s outburst over the club’s demanding December schedule. The Gunners will now face Everton on Saturday, December 20 at 8:00 PM, instead of Sunday, December 21, at the Toffees’ new Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Why Arsenal Requested a Change

Arsenal’s decision came after they advanced to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Crystal Palace on December 23. The original fixture would have given Arteta’s team only two days of rest between matches—something the manager called “nonsensical.”

Arteta said:

“Hopefully they will move our Premier League match, because to play two days later doesn’t make any sense. So now we decide the date [for the Carabao Cup match], I am sure they will change the Premier League [match] as well.”

He also criticized the tight scheduling, stressing that it compromises player recovery and performance.

Palace Also Granted Change

Crystal Palace faced a similar issue, as their Premier League fixture against Leeds United was also set for December 21—just two days before their Cup game against Arsenal. Palace’s manager Oliver Glasner echoed Arteta’s frustration, urging better coordination between the Premier League, FA, and UEFA.

“It would be irresponsible to play on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday,” Glasner said. “We need these bodies to talk together because this is their job.”

Official Statements

Arsenal confirmed the change with an official club statement:

“Playing two matches within a 48-hour period contravenes FIFA recommendations, which call for at least 72 hours’ rest between games. This change was made to protect player health and fitness during the busy December schedule.”

Crystal Palace also announced their Leeds clash will now take place on Saturday, December 20 at 8:00 PM, ensuring both clubs have adequate recovery time before their Carabao Cup encounter on December 23.

With the revised fixtures, both Arsenal and Palace can now better prepare for their crucial Carabao Cup quarter-final, while players get the rest they need in a congested festive period.