Arsenal have reportedly asked for their Premier League clash with Everton to be moved a day earlier. The club are hoping to avoid playing two matches within three days during the busy festive period.
According to a report from the BBC, the fixture at Goodison Park is currently scheduled for Sunday, 21 December, with a 14:00 BST kick-off.
However, the Gunners have applied for the match to be played on Saturday, 20 December, at 20:00 BST.
The club believe the change would give their players more recovery time before their Carabao Cup quarter-final tie against Crystal Palace.
Arsenal are due to host Palace at the Emirates Stadium on 23 December in the Carabao Cup.
With just two days separating the fixtures, Mikel Arteta and his coaching team want to manage player fitness and reduce the risk of fatigue.
Arteta aims to protect squad fitness and maintain momentum
Arteta’s side are currently top of the Premier League table with 26 points, four ahead of second-placed Manchester City.
After finishing runners-up for three consecutive seasons, Arsenal are determined to maintain their form and finally lift the league title.
The Spaniard has often spoken about the importance of keeping his squad fresh during intense fixture periods.
Playing two matches in quick succession could make that difficult, especially with Arsenal competing on several fronts this season.
The team remain active in the Premier League, the Carabao Cup, and European competitions, all of which demand careful rotation and rest.
Arsenal’s request to move the game reflects a wider concern about the demanding schedule faced by top clubs.
December is traditionally a crowded month in English football, with matches often played every few days.
Managing player workload has become even more important for teams aiming to stay competitive across all competitions.
The Gunners’ decision shows a desire to prioritise recovery and preparation, particularly as they continue their push for silverware.