The FA has announced plans to update the format of the FA Cup starting next season as part of an English football overhaul, aiming to improve the competition for the future. 

The major changes are to the scheduling of the Cup, with no replays starting in the first round, all rounds being played on weekends, and the final being moved to the penultimate weekend of the Premier League season rather than an end of season showpiece event. 

There are changes to the Premier League schedule, as well, with the idea for a mid-season winter break being scrapped in favour of a longer summer vacation. 

Perhaps the biggest change, however, is the extra £33 million the Premier League has agreed to invest in the football pyramid and grassroots football, adding to the £100 million the league currently gives to develop the game at all levels each season.

With the gap in budgets and finances between Premier League clubs and those in the lower leagues, this is a major and welcome change. 

As football continues to change, expand and grow across the globe – from a new UEFA Champions League format to brand-new tournaments altogether – the added emphasis on funding for those clubs and leagues that fall outside of the spotlight is wonderful to see.

‍