Table of Contents
- Aston Villa's Complaint to the Premier League
- Back-to-Back Away Games
- Comments from the Director of Football Operations
- Manager's Perspective
ASTON VILLA has raised concerns with the Premier League after being scheduled to face Arsenal tomorrow.
The third-placed club is perplexed by the existence of a reverse fixture list for this matchday, despite not having played their upcoming match against another opponent this Saturday.
Aston Villa has raised concerns with the Premier LeagueCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
Unai Emery and his Aston Villa team prepare for a significant match against ArsenalCredit: AFP
While this situation affects other teams as well, in-form Villa is frustrated to be faced with a second consecutive away game after their match on Saturday.
The Director of Football Operations, Damian Vidagany, stated: “The EPL has scheduled a matchday from the latter half of the season before matchday 19 without providing a clear explanation.
“I reached out to EPL representatives for clarification, but they did not provide any answers. Therefore, it remains a mystery.
“The reality is that this scheduling seems to favor certain clubs that do not have to travel during this busy Christmas period.
“I encourage you to examine which clubs are playing at home for both their last and next matches.
“Forcing us to play two away games in under 72 hours is unacceptable; we agree that playing twice at home without the need to travel is far better for recovery.
“It would be unacceptable if fixture scheduling became political.”
Additionally, both Manchester City and another team have two home games during this period while Aston Villa is away.
The manager remarked: “In my 20 years of coaching, this is the first time we are completing the first part of the season without playing against all 19 teams.
“We are facing 18 teams, with Arsenal twice. I find this perplexing and do not understand why.
“Typically, we would be playing against Nottingham Forest tomorrow to conclude the first part of the season.
“I am mentioning this because it is the only issue that I cannot comprehend. However, I accept the situation.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Aston Villa unhappy with the Premier League schedule?
Aston Villa is frustrated because they have been scheduled for a second consecutive away game and are perplexed by the reverse fixture list for this matchday, which does not align with their upcoming matches.
What did the Director of Football Operations say about the situation?
Damian Vidagany expressed confusion over the scheduling, indicating that the EPL has not provided a clear explanation for the matchday setup, and he emphasized the inconvenience of having to play two away games in a short timeframe.
What is the manager's perspective on the current schedule?
The manager noted that it is unusual to finish the first part of the season without playing against all 19 teams and expressed his confusion regarding the scheduling, while also accepting the situation.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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