FA Cup changes confirmed

From the first round onwards, replays have now been scrapped, a consequence of the expansion of UEFA's European competitions.

Ties must be decided on the day, through extra-time or penalties, if required.

United's last replay came against Wolves in early 2020, winning 1-0 at Old Trafford, thanks to a goal by Juan Mata, following a 0-0 draw at Molineux.

Of course, there have not been replays for the latter stages for some time - our epic 1999 semi-final victory over Arsenal at Villa Park was the last rematch at that stage of the competition.

All rounds will now be played on weekends, with no midweek slot for the fifth round, as was the case this term, when Erik ten Hag's side won 1-0 at Nottingham Forest.

There will be no Premier League fixtures clashing with the fourth, fifth and sixth-round ties, while the fourth-round games are to be spread across Friday to Wednesday, with an extended window.

In positive news for the grassroots game, an additional £33 million will be funded by the Premier League to the football pyramid, in addition to the £100 million it gives to good causes each season.

These changes will be in place for at least the next six years.

United are aiming to book a second successive place in the final by beating Coventry City at Wembley on Sunday. Should the Reds qualify for the Community Shield, this will be held on Saturday 10 August, ahead of the start of the 2024/25 Premier League.

Next year's FA Cup final will be staged on the penultimate weekend of the Premier League campaign, on a Saturday when no top-flight fixtures are scheduled.

Please note that the winter break has been removed from the schedule.