Exeter City have been drawn to play Manchester City in the FA Cup. Many people think this match will bring the club a lot of money. But manager Gary Caldwell says that is not true. He explains that Exeter will not earn “millions” from this game. While the match will be very special and exciting, fans should not expect it to fix the club’s money problems.
Why Exeter City Needs to Be Careful With Money’, said Gary Caldwell
Exeter City play in League One and have had money problems this season. The club is owned by its fans, not rich owners. The Exeter City Supporters’ Trust has already lent the club over £600,000 to help pay bills. In the past, FA Cup matches helped small clubs earn big money. But the rules have changed. There are no replays, and many games are not shown on TV. Because of this, playing for a big team like Manchester City does not bring as much money as before.
Gary Caldwell Explains the Truth About the FA Cup Game
Gary Caldwell spoke about the excitement around the Manchester City match. He said some friends messaged him saying the game would be worth millions of pounds. He quickly knew that was wrong.
Caldwell recently watched Manchester City play at the Etihad Stadium in another cup match. He said ticket prices for the FA Cup game are similar. Even if the stadium is full, Exeter will only get 45% of the ticket money after costs are taken away.
A football money expert, Kieran Maguire, believes Exeter will earn around £350,000 from the match. This will help the club, but it will not change everything.
Caldwell says the game should be about football, not money. He wants players and fans to enjoy visiting a Premier League stadium and playing against one of the best teams in the world. Winning would be amazing, but the main goal is to try their best.
Fans Feel Happy, Hopeful, and Realistic
Exeter fans have different feelings about the game. Many are happy and excited to see their team play Manchester City. Some hope the money from the match will help the club a lot. Others understand what Gary Caldwell is saying and agree that the money will not solve everything. The media also say this match is more about pride and experience than profit. For most fans, it is a special day to remember.
Some fans are talking more about the day out than the result. Many are planning trips and seeing it as a once-in-a-lifetime visit to a big stadium. For younger fans, this could be their first time watching Exeter play a top Premier League team.
How This Match Helps Exeter — On and Off the Pitch
The money from the match will help Exeter for a short time, but it will not fix long-term problems. Experts say League One clubs lose a lot of money every week. Exeter cannot afford big losses like other teams. Still, this game is important. Players can learn from playing a top team, and fans can enjoy a big moment during a tough season.
This match puts Exeter City in the national spotlight. More people will learn about the club and its fan-owned model. But even without big money! The game can boost the club’s image, attract future players, and strengthen belief inside the team.
Author’s Opinion
In conclusion, this FA Cup match is not about getting rich I believe Gary Caldwell is right. This match should not be about money. Exeter City should enjoy playing a top team and make fans proud. The experience matters more than cash, and moments like this help players and supporters believe in the club.
As featured on ManCityNews.com
