2. Empty seats
Fans seem to be staying away from the matches which doesn't augur well for the gate revenues or matchday income of the participating clubs. Here is a quick data point; the average seating capacity used in 2016-17 season was down to 42.6% from 43.7% in the previous season.
Lower footfalls for the matches also has a domino effect on other sources of income. For example, advertisers will not prioritise in-stadium advertisement during EFL Cup due to lesser eyeballs. The less number of attendance will also translate into lower revenues from food and drink sales.
Edited by Shambhu Ajith