The future of the Community Shield is in doubt, with Premier League clubs reportedly keen for it to be axed as the season opener, according to reports.
The annual fixture takes place the week before the league season kicks off and consists of the FA Cup winners against the Premier League winners.
This year’s game saw Liverpool beat Manchester City 3-1 at the King Power stadium thanks to goals from Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Darwin Nunez.
Several ideas are being touted for the Community Shield as part of the ‘New Deal for Football’ plan, which is set to come in after 2024.
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Premier League clubs are reportedly keen to axe the Community Shield as the season opener
Liverpool beat Manchester City 3-1 in this year’s game, which took place on July 30
The Community Shield has long been viewed by many as a glorified pre-season friendly and the big six sides are thought to believe that it negatively impacts their pre-season preparations and reduces the money they can earn from lucrative tours abroad ahead of the campaign.
According to The Times, options on the table include the Community Shield taking place mid-season or during Gameweek One.
Similarly, one club is said to have suggested playing the game abroad in a country such as China or the USA to promote the Premier League’s global appeal.
The Community Shield acts as the season’s curtain raiser and consists of the Premier League winners playing against the FA Cup winners from the previous campaign
Another club has pushed the idea of a potential All-Star game, like the one suggested by new Chelsea owner Todd Boehly.
However, Boehly’s idea of a North vs South Premier League clash received widespread criticism and condemnation from across the footballing world.
The Community Shield currently raises money for charity and grassroots football.
Todd Boehly’s idea of a Premier League All-Star game was much-maligned throughout football
Elsewhere, The Athletic have also reported that the Premier League is set to hold an ‘enhanced pre-season tournament’ in the USA next summer, in what is expected to be a similar format to the previous Asia Trophy that ran from 2003 to 2019.
The Times also report that the ‘New Deal for Football’ may lead to FA Cup replays being scrapped in the Third and Fourth rounds.
However, the final decision will rest with the FA board.