MANCHESTER City fans have slammed Wembley chiefs for keeping them in the FA Cup Final dark.
With only 16 days before City run out against Crystal Palace for English football’s showpiece occasion, there has still been no confirmation of the kick-off time.
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Last night the FA took all information about the game off its official website, with the page designation for Final details reading: “No Fixtures available, please check later.”
FA insiders confirmed that discussions over the kick-off time were still ongoing, with broadcasters BBC and ITV at odds.
The Beeb want the game to start in the traditional 3pm slot – ensuring that even if the match were to go to extra-time or penalties there will be no overlap issues with the Eurovision Song Contest broadcast due to start at 8pm.
ITV are understood to be pushing for a 5.30pm kick-off to maximum viewer numbers and advertising demand.
Meanwhile, the FA has to square all decisions off with Police, local council safety chiefs and the transport authorities.
Even so, there is a recognition that the lack of certainty is not the best look.
And the lack of confirmation brought an angry response from City supporters, already fuming at ticket prices of up to £285.
City sold 5,000 short of their allocation for the semi-final win over Nottingham Forest.
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Boss Pep Guardiola noted the amount his side’s supporters have had to fork out for Wembley trips over recent season.
City YouTube channel presenter Steven McInerney, pointing to all Final category tickets having gone up by between £5 and £35, said on X: “The prices compared to last year are taking the p***.
“It’s in two weeks, people have to organise travel and the kick off time hasn’t even been announced yet.
“Shambles of an institution. Fans slapped in the face constantly.”