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24th Sep 2021

Why United vs Villa and Chelsea vs City are happening at the same time

Kieran Galpin

Grealish

A busy day in Manchester!

Two high profile Premier League matches will kick off at the same time on Saturday (September 25), leaving many football fans confused as to why.

Though a majority of people believed Manchester United would face Aston Villa at 3 pm, they will actually clash at the same time Chelsea goes head-to-head with Manchester City at Stamford Bridge at 12.30pm.

Earlier this month, United confirmed the time change. They wrote:

“Our home match against Aston Villa on 25 September has been brought forward to a 12.30 BST kick-off, following a request from Trafford Council Safety Advisory Group to move the game due to The Courteeners concert at Lancashire Cricket Club, Emirates Old Trafford, on the same day.

“This request was supported by Greater Manchester Police and TfGM to avoid significant crowd, traffic and operational issues locally.

“We regret any disruption that this may cause around our supporters’ plans for the day.”

English indie band The Courteeners formed in 2006 in Middleton and is made up of Liam Fray, Michael Campbell, Daniel “Conan” Moores and Mark Cuppello. Cupello was later replaced by the band’s producer, Joe Cross, in 2015.

Courteeners will be supported by The Smiths’ legend Johnny Marr, Stockport five-piece Blossoms and The Big Moon. If footie isn’t your thing, then the Courteeners are said to start their homecoming gig at quarter to nine in the evening.

Emirates Old Trafford states: “Concert goers are being advised during pre-event communication that proof of COVID vaccination or a negative lateral or PCR test taken within 48 hours of arrival is a requirement to gain entry to the Stadium. Stewards will be conducting spot checks at the arrival gates.”

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