Premier League set to make divisive decision as Liverpool fans left waiting in frustration

The Premier League is reportedly close to announcing a decision that’s expected to spark widespread criticism from football fans across the UK.

Currently, Liverpool and the other 19 top-flight clubs know their fixture dates and kick-off times up to Christmas, but the official schedule for the festive period remains unconfirmed — despite the initial promise that all December and January games would be finalised by 15 October.

For Liverpool supporters, there’s at least some positive news: both of their final matches of 2025 are scheduled to take place at Anfield, against Wolves on 27 December and Leeds on 30 December — though these dates could still change.

Only one Premier League game on Boxing Day

According to The Guardian, this year’s Boxing Day will feature just one Premier League fixture, a major departure from tradition on what is usually one of the busiest days in the English football calendar. The EFL, however, will still hold a full round of matches.

With 26 December falling on a Friday and the league bound by broadcast agreements that require 33 weekends of fixtures each season, most Premier League games will be held on Saturday or Sunday instead. The close scheduling of the following midweek round also limits flexibility — for instance, a team can’t play on Monday and again on Tuesday.

When will the festive fixtures be confirmed?

Liverpool have played on Boxing Day in each of the last three seasons — winning against Leicester, Burnley, and Aston Villa — but there’s reportedly only a 10% chance their clash with Wolves will take place on the 26th this year.

While some fans might appreciate a break from the Boxing Day tradition, many will be disappointed to miss out on one of football’s most iconic dates, especially at a time when long-standing customs like FA Cup replays are already being phased out.

The continued delay in confirming the December and January TV selections has also frustrated supporters. The announcement, originally expected two weeks ago, is reportedly being held up by ongoing negotiations between the relevant parties.

Hopefully, the Premier League will soon provide clarity on Liverpool’s festive schedule — a crucial period that will see the Reds without Mohamed Salah, who’ll be representing Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.