Premier League officials have scrapped a relatively obscure broadcasting regulation for the upcoming season.
Previously, rules prevented youth team matches from being broadcast simultaneously with senior top-flight fixtures.
However, this restriction has reportedly been removed starting from the 2025/26 season. This change means Under-21 matches in Premier League 2 can now be live-streamed, even when senior games are being shown on major broadcasters like Sky Sports or TNT Sports.
Official club media channels are expected to be the primary platforms for broadcasting these games. There is speculation that a wider TV deal might follow in future years if enough people tune in.
A report confirms that Premier League clubs have received permission to live-stream all U21 matches starting next season, altering the current regulations. The report also noted that while club websites are likely to stream the games initially, broadcasting rights could be offered to external parties later if viewer interest is high.
This rule change is seen as a significant positive development for football fans across the country, particularly benefiting supporters of clubs like Manchester United.
Manchester United`s official channel, MUTV, has often faced criticism for not broadcasting enough live youth team matches. For instance, only 14 out of 35 U21 games were shown live last season, with only eight being Premier League 2 fixtures. Reports suggest that recent job cuts under Sir Jim Ratcliffe have affected MUTV`s ability to broadcast more games.
In related news, Manchester City`s Elite Development Squad won the 2024/25 Premier League 2 title by defeating Southampton 2-0 in the play-off final.
Separately, Premier League fans will still experience the traditional 3 pm Saturday broadcast blackout for senior matches next season, a rule designed to encourage stadium attendance.
However, there are reports indicating that this 3 pm blackout rule might be removed when the current broadcasting rights agreements conclude at the end of the 2028/29 season.
