Manchester City are in active discussions with the Premier League to reschedule two league fixtures that could have a major impact on the title run-in. The reigning champions have reached the FA Cup final, set for May 16, which forces a change to their originally scheduled away match at Bournemouth on May 17. Meanwhile, their home game against Crystal Palace, initially set for March, still needs a confirmed date.
All three clubs have been in dialogue with the league. One proposal would see Palace visit the Etihad on May 13 and City travel to Bournemouth on May 19, placing the Bournemouth game between the FA Cup final and their season finale against Aston Villa on May 24. That would mean three matches in seven days for Guardiola's side.
However, sources say City have pushed for alternatives. One option under consideration is hosting Bournemouth on May 12 and Palace on May 19, giving City an extra recovery day before the Wembley showpiece and allowing them to finish the season with two consecutive home league games.
UEFA's fixture preferences have further complicated matters, as the governing body discourages domestic matches on nights when its club competitions are played. The Premier League has not yet confirmed the final dates, but an announcement is expected soon.
Arsenal, currently top of the table and chasing their first title in 22 years, will be watching closely as the schedule could influence the outcome of the title race.