The change is the result of UEFA’s ‘city clash’ rule
Arsenal have been left unhappy after the day their home-leg Europa League tie with Rennes was moved to prevent it clashing with Chelsea’s match against Dynamo Kiev.
The game at the Emirates has been moved to 14 March and the home-leg played first instead. It was previously set to be held on 7 March, the same day as Chelsea’s game with Dynamo Kiev.
The change is the result of UEFA’s ‘city clash’ rule, which states that more than one club from the same city in a Uefa competition, it is able to alter kick-off times or the date of the game.
Arsenal will play Rennes on 7 March in France, with the match having a 5.55pm kick-off. Chelsea will take on Dynamo Kiev at Stamford Bridge at 8pm on the same day.
We will play our away leg first due to @UEFA's city-clash rule pic.twitter.com/n5lj9qCh2w
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 22, 2019
Following the decision, the Arsenal Supporters’ Trust tweeted: “Good news that Uefa have listened and Arsenal will play next Europa League v Rennes game in evening slot. Away leg will now come first. #PutFansFirst.
“However, the communication from Uefa was questionable with many fans having potentially booked flights/trains.
“The general story of the game being a normal KO is extremely positive, however, but hope fans do not lose money.”
