Chelsea supporters have been left deeply concerned by reports of a Premier League match scheduled for Christmas Eve. The Blues are set to face Wolves in a tradition-breaking game on December 24, marking the first time in 28 years that a Premier League fixture will occur on Christmas Eve.
The news has stirred controversy among fans, who are already dealing with the busy holiday season. The Premier League is known for its festive fixtures, including the widely recognized Boxing Day games. However, playing a match right before Christmas is causing considerable unease.
One major point of concern is the likely disruption to public transportation on this day. Christmas Eve is a time when many people travel to be with their families. Scheduling a match on this date adds an extra layer of inconvenience for fans looking to spend precious time with loved ones.
According to sources, the Wolves vs. Chelsea match is set to kick off at 1 pm, breaking the long-standing tradition of not playing on Christmas Eve. Fans have voiced their displeasure with this decision, and the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust has raised objections. They argue that the decision to play on Christmas Eve could hinder fans’ ability to attend the match.
In a statement, the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust expressed their concerns: “These reports are deeply worrying. No Premier League fixture has been played on Christmas Eve for 28 years, and this decision would be unacceptable. We should be helping fans travel to away fixtures – it would be a spit in the face of supporters if another hurdle is placed in their way.”
While some fans might still attend a Christmas Eve match with a 1 pm kick-off, it’s clear that the decision has stirred controversy and raised concerns about the impact on holiday traditions. Many believe that playing a Premier League match on Christmas Eve is an unwelcome deviation from the usual festive schedule.
As the Premier League continues to navigate scheduling decisions, the focus should be on considering the well-being and preferences of fans who make the sport what it is. Whether the Christmas Eve clash goes ahead remains to be seen, but it has certainly raised questions about the balance between tradition, television, and fans’ best interests.