The FA Cup has undergone significant changes this season following the abolition of replays from the first round proper onwards. The new agreement between the Football Association and the Premier League, which will run for at least six years, increases funding to grassroots football by up to £33 million per season. The decision was met with criticism from many EFL and non-league clubs, who claimed they were not properly consulted and that the changes favour top Premier League clubs.
As a result, all third round ties this weekend will be settled on the day, with extra time and penalties if necessary. Previously, replays were a traditional feature of the competition, but they had already been scrapped from the fifth round onwards. The new rules were put to the test on Sunday when National League side Tamworth held Premier League Tottenham to a 0-0 draw, only to lose after extra time instead of earning a lucrative replay at Tottenham's stadium.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham defended the changes, stating that the FA Cup generates over 60 per cent of the FA's revenue and that the new format strengthens the competition. He said: 'This new agreement between the FA and the Premier League strengthens the Emirates FA Cup and gives this very special tournament exclusive weekends in an increasingly busy calendar.' Premier League chief executive Richard Masters also expressed support, noting both parties were committed to enhancing the scheduling of the competition.
The fourth and fifth rounds and the quarter-finals will be played on weekends exclusive of Premier League fixtures for the first time. The final will take place on the penultimate weekend of the season, with no Premier League matches scheduled on the same day. The changes aim to protect the 'magic of the Cup' while accommodating a crowded football calendar.
