'Disgustingly disgraceful decision!' - Fans react after FA Cup replays are scrapped entirely as new format of famous competition announced

The days of FA Cup replays have been consigned to the history books with the famous tournament set for a new format from the start of next season. A statement from the FA has confirmed the new agreement "which is for a minimum of six years" starts from the beginning of the 2024-25 campaign and will see all rounds played on weekends. Furthermore, starting from the first round, there will be no more replays.

The decision to axe replays by the FA has not gone down well with fans who have criticised the move on social media.

@shearn1986 wrote on X: "disgusting that you “support grassroots” but cancel replays. This is massive for non league teams when they get a great draw. As usual, only supporting your premiership teams."

@AlexF1BCL added: "A disgustingly disgraceful decision once again! Some clubs need the money and you scrap the replays! Madness!"

@ScottwareDev felt the competition is being ruined, adding: "Disgraceful to drop replays so early in the competition. Destroying such a historic cup for the sake of the big clubs, as always."

The feeling was echoed by journalists who are also unimpressed with the move.

Sam Cunningham at ipaper posted on X: "Breaking: There will no longer be FA Cup replays from the First Round due to the expansion of the Champions League from next season. Money out of the pockets of smaller clubs and into the pockets of richer ones."

Man Utd reporter Rich Fay was also unhappy: "729 teams compete in the FA Cup, yet the future of it is being dictated by an elite minority with a selfish agenda. You can’t claim an ‘increased support for grassroots football’ when there are no replays from the first round onwards. A disgraceful decision."

Oliver Holt at the Daily Mail said: "Premier League finding yet another way to screw the smaller clubs. Never forget the Steve Parish mantra: it's supermarkets v corner shops. In that world, only might is right."

And The Athletic's Matt Woosnam added: "Scrapping FA Cup replays is yet more deference to those with the strongest, largest squads who complain the loudest. They always, obviously, get their own way and (worthy) traditions fall away as a result."

Chief executive Mark Bullingham said in a statement: "The Emirates FA Cup is our biggest asset and generates over 60 per cent of our revenue to invest into the game, so it is critical to secure a strong format for the future. This new agreement between the FA and the Premier League strengthens the Emirates FA Cup and gives this very special tournament exclusive weekends in an increasingly busy calendar.

"The new schedule ensures the magic of the Cup is protected and enhanced, while working for the whole of the English game. The longer summer period also allows a much-needed player break before the start of the next season.

"We have also agreed new funding for the grassroots game, disability football and the women’s and girls’ game. All football begins at the grassroots, and this is recognised by the Premier League with very welcome additional financial support."

The FA Cup will be back in full focus at the weekend with two huge semi-final ties set to take place at Wembley. Holders Manchester City face Chelsea on Saturday, before Manchester United take on Championship side Coventry City on Sunday.