When will the Premier League Season Return – The Options
// function the_post_thumbnail( $size = 'post-thumbnail', $attr = '' ) { echo get_the_post_thumbnail(); //} ?>The English Premier League still remains on hold as the coronavius pandemic has taken control of sports not only in the UK but around the world. Whilst there appears to light at the end of the tunnel for several countries, the uncertainty still remains.
The most-watched football league in the world has 9 matches left to be played in order to bring the 2019/2020 season to a conclusion. Whilst Liverpool F.C. are on course to win the league, there are still European places and relegation to be decided.’Fans are eager to get back to the football; whether that be attending live games, watching from home or looking for great odds (check out Casumo betting when the action returns.)
The speculation of the league continues with many reports of the games eventually being played behind closed doors. We at E-Soccer.com will look at the most realistic options on the table for the FA when they announce their decision in the next several weeks.
Many pundits, managers etc have voiced their opinion on the importance of completing the current season and avoid it being cancelled completely.
A statement from the FA today read:
“The Premier League will not resume at the beginning of May – and the 2019/20 season will only return when it is safe and appropriate to do so. The restart date is under constant review with all stakeholders, as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic develops and we work together through this very challenging time.
The Premier League is working closely with the whole of professional football in this country, as well as with the Government, public agencies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the game achieves a collaborative solution”
Here are some the options available to the FA:
Behind Closed Doors
Whilst several games were played behind closed doors just before the outbreak, this still resulted in many players contracting the virus.
The speculation by many mainstream tabloids is that there is the option of games being played at Wembley Stadium away from fans. Whilst this is a viable option, all players and staff would have to be tested before playing each game in order to ensure the safety of the players and those in attendance.
With 92 games left to play and social distancing measures likely to be in place for several months in order to complete the season by the end of June (UEFA Deadline) there would need to be many games taking place in such a short period of time.
The Times reported this week that the FA will offer this as an option to all the Premier League with a decision expected soon.
Complete Games As Planned
The other option would be to play the games over the summer albeit to a shorter schedule but at the stadiums as originally planned.
Whilst many fans would be happy with this arrangement, it is unclear if the Government would allow tens of thousands people in the stadiums in close proximity. This would be the least favoured option for many, it is unlikely we will see full stadiums until next season, planned for September 2020.
Void the Premier League
The Football Association will be desperate to finish the remaining games of the league due to the enormous impact it would have if they didn’t complete the games. The reported figure is close to £1billion as many of the broadcasters have paid huge sums for the rights and will be looking for a return on the investment.
Liverpool F.C. fans would be extremely disappointed if this happens, they are odds on favourites to win the Premier League for the first time in over 30 years. This is unlikely to happen and the Reds will be crowned champions before the summer is over.
Today the UEFA (the governing body for European Football) president, Aleksander Ceferin announced that August 3 is the latest possible date for the 2019-20 Champions League final.
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