The FA Cup is undergoing major changes for the upcoming season, as all replays will be scrapped. This move is expected to have a significant impact on the way matches are played, with the focus shifting towards winning one-off games rather than playing for a replay. Some have criticized this decision, expressing concern about the potential implications for the football pyramid. Additionally, the Premier League will be increasing its funding to grassroots football by providing an additional £33m.

This move is aimed at supporting the development of the game at a grassroots level, including disability football and women’s and girls’ game. Nicola Palios, vice chair of Tranmere Rovers, questioned the decision-making process, highlighting the disconnect between the number of teams competing in the FA Cup and the influence of the Premier League. EFL Chief Executive Trevor Birch also expressed frustration at the lack of consideration for the implications on EFL clubs and sought appropriate compensation arrangements. The Professional Footballers’ Association chief executive, Maheta Molango, emphasized the need for a collective approach to creating a sustainable fixture calendar and expressed concerns about the impact of international decisions on domestic competitions.

Overall, these changes have sparked debate and raised questions about the future of the FA Cup and its impact on the broader football community.