The highly anticipated Carabao Cup quarter-final match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace has been officially rescheduled to December 23, following a period of uncertainty and debate. The match, initially slated for December 16, was moved to accommodate Crystal Palace's congested fixture schedule. The game is scheduled to kick off at 8pm and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports and ITV in the UK.
The primary reason for the rescheduling was the strain on Crystal Palace's squad, who would have faced an unreasonable fixture pile-up. Had the original date remained, they would have been forced to play four games in just eight days, including a Premier League match against Manchester City on December 14, the Carabao Cup tie against Arsenal on December 16, a Conference League fixture against KuPS of Finland on December 18, and another Premier League game against Leeds United on December 21.
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner had voiced strong concerns about the initial schedule, calling it "irresponsible" to ask his team to play under such strenuous conditions. He emphasized the importance of player welfare and the need for football's governing bodies to coordinate better when creating schedules to prevent such situations. "It's dangerous, irresponsible to say that you should play Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday," Glasner stated, highlighting the physical toll on the players. He also suggested that UEFA, the Premier League, the EFL, and the FA should collaborate to organize the schedule more effectively during the off-season.
While Crystal Palace pushed for the change, Arsenal initially appeared resistant to the move, with some reports suggesting they were against shifting the game from its original date. However, Mikel Arteta indicated they would find a compromise. Some outlets quoted Arteta as saying that moving the game wouldn't be fair because of Arsenal's own commitments. However, Arteta also acknowledged the need to find the best solution for everyone involved.
Ultimately, a compromise was reached, with the EFL favoring December 23 as a fair alternative. This decision ensures that both teams have adequate rest before the quarter-final clash. Both Arsenal and Crystal Palace will play Premier League matches on December 21 before their Carabao Cup game. Arsenal will face Everton, while Crystal Palace will play against Leeds United.
The other Carabao Cup quarter-final matches are scheduled to take place the week before. Cardiff City will face Chelsea, Manchester City will play Brentford, and Newcastle United will compete against Fulham.
