Manchester City’s request for a more favourable fixture schedule is expected to be rejected by the Premier League, despite the potential impact on their title race with Arsenal.
City have two league matches still to be rearranged, with their trip to Bournemouth postponed because of their FA Cup final against Chelsea on May 16.
They also still need to face Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium, a fixture that has remained without a confirmed date due to both clubs’ congested schedules.
City had hoped the Premier League would switch the order of those matches to ease the pressure on Pep Guardiola’s squad during the run-in.
The club proposed an alternative sequence that would reduce travel demands and allow for more recovery time between fixtures.
However, the Premier League is expected to prioritise the original calendar order, meaning the Palace fixture will take place before the Bournemouth trip.
That leaves City facing Palace on May 13, Chelsea at Wembley on May 16 and Bournemouth away on May 19.
Such a sequence would see Guardiola’s side play three matches in seven days before their final league game of the season against Aston Villa.
The situation has drawn attention because of the ongoing title battle, with Arsenal currently setting the pace and City attempting to close the gap.
Fixture congestion at this stage of the campaign could prove decisive, particularly with both teams managing pressure across competitions.
UEFA scheduling constraints have limited flexibility, with European finals affecting available midweek dates.
The Premier League is now expected to confirm the remaining fixture details imminently, with supporters awaiting clarity for travel and planning.
City’s request reflects the physical demands of competing on multiple fronts, but the league appears unwilling to make exceptions that could be viewed as preferential treatment.
Arsenal will monitor the outcome closely, knowing any added strain on City’s schedule could influence the balance of the title race.
With only a handful of games remaining, even fixture timing has become a critical factor in determining where the Premier League trophy will end up.
