The pre-season period is an essential phase for football clubs as they focus on enhancing fitness levels and integrating new tactical approaches in anticipation of the upcoming season. Many clubs choose to partake in friendlies ‘behind closed doors’, where no spectators are permitted. This approach enables the teams to train and compete in settings that differ from regular matches played in front of fans. The absence of a crowd during these behind closed doors fixtures can present an advantageous opportunity for clubs, particularly in evaluating potential new players.
The term ‘behind closed doors’ denotes matches being played without any spectators present, resulting in an unusual environment with an empty stadium as the backdrop. While this practice is commonplace during pre-season, it is also employed during the regular season for various reasons, including disciplinary measures, safety considerations, or to avert clashes between supporters of rival teams. The Covid-19 pandemic in 2020/21 further led to the majority of matches being played behind closed doors, preventing fans from attending games in person.
Various factors influence clubs’ decisions to participate in friendlies behind closed doors. Primarily, the organization of these matches is simpler, as it eliminates logistical complexities such as ticketing, stadium safety protocols, and security arrangements. This grants clubs greater flexibility to engage in more games and assess different players, without concerns regarding the financial implications of hosting public matches. Additionally, clubs can discreetly conduct trials for potential new players during these friendlies, safeguarding their identities and preventing interference from other clubs.
From a financial perspective, matches played behind closed doors do not generate revenue from ticket sales or broadcasting agreements. This lack of income can pose a challenge for clubs, particularly those situated lower in the football hierarchy. Hosting matches with spectators involves various expenses, including safety checks, police support, stewarding, and catering, which can place strain on the financial resources of clubs. Therefore, some clubs opt for behind closed doors matches to alleviate these economic pressures.
During the 2024/25 pre-season, several Premier League teams, such as Liverpool and Tottenham, chose to engage in friendlies behind closed doors. This decision enabled them to assess their squads without the pressures of a public audience, creating a conducive environment for managers to evaluate player performances.
In summary, pre-season friendlies behind closed doors play a vital role in aiding clubs as they prepare for the upcoming season by enhancing fitness levels, implementing new tactics, and evaluating potential players. Despite the absence of financial benefits and the unique atmosphere of matches without spectators, this approach offers clubs the flexibility and privacy necessary to navigate the demands of pre-season.