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Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has confirmed that the league will remain at 20 clubs and not reduce to 18, despite growing international scheduling conflicts and pressure from global football authorities. His comments come as top domestic leagues face strain from expanded tournaments like the Club World Cup and international competitions.
Masters, speaking in Chicago, highlighted the impact of congested football calendars, with the 2025-26 season beginning on 15 August and stretching until the World Cup final in the United States on 19 July. The Premier League's refusal to alter its structure comes amid friction with FIFA over insufficient consultation regarding the expanded 32-team Club World Cup and the new 48-team World Cup format.
Masters emphasized that while he supports the growth of global football, it should not come at the cost of domestic competitions. He agreed with players' union Fifpro that FIFA has not engaged stakeholders properly before implementing these changes. The increased number of fixtures has already affected domestic schedules, forcing the FA Cup to drop replays and the Carabao Cup to be split across two midweeks in September.
The issue has also created conflict between the league and its own clubs. Chelsea and Manchester City had requested a delayed start to the new season due to their summer commitments, including Chelsea's Club World Cup victory over PSG. That request was denied, leaving them with only a few weeks between tournaments and the start of the Premier League season.
Masters said the constant reshaping of the calendar to accommodate global and European tournaments is beginning to challenge the traditional structure of English football. Since 1994, the league has featured 20 clubs and 380 matches. He warned that the lack of proper dialogue from international bodies is leading to unnecessary pressure on players and clubs.
Despite criticism over the use of central funding for overseas tournaments like the Summer Series, Masters defended the league's strategy of international growth. The Summer Series, held in the United States, is expected to return in 2027, as part of a broader plan to expand the Premier League's global presence, particularly with broadcasters like NBC.
While the Saudi Pro League and other competitions grow rapidly, Masters remains confident in the Premier League's appeal, citing its competitiveness, global fan base, and ability to attract top talent.
