Football’s governing bodies are considering implementing a novel regulation that could significantly alter the Premier League, much to the dismay of goalkeepers.
The sport has seen numerous modifications in recent times.
Technological advancements such as goal-line technology, Video Assistant Referees, updates to the handball rules, and changes in kick-off procedures have become commonplace, with new changes introduced annually.
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The International Football Association Board (IFAB) is now turning its attention to curbing time-wasting tactics, particularly those employed by goalkeepers.
The existing rules prohibit goalkeepers from retaining possession of the ball for more than six seconds. Violating this rule results in the opposing team being awarded an indirect free-kick at the location of the infraction.
However, this rule is seldom enforced by referees, who believe that an indirect free-kick within the penalty box is excessively punitive, transforming a non-scoring situation into a definite scoring chance for the opposition.
Moreover, organizing a free-kick within the crowded penalty area is challenging and time-intensive.
To address this, IFAB is suggesting a new approach: if a goalkeeper exceeds the time limit for ball possession, the opposing team would be granted possession through a corner kick or a throw-in from the sideline nearest to the goalkeeper’s position.
The proposed adjustment to the rules will extend the goalkeeper’s ball-holding duration to eight seconds, accommodating instances where opponents hinder the ball’s release.
Referees will commence the eight-second countdown once the goalkeeper securely grasps the ball, signaling the final five seconds with a raised hand.
For the initial infringement, the goalkeeper will be cautioned, and for any further violations, they will be issued a yellow card.
ESPN’s Dale Johnson reports that these new regulations will undergo testing in leagues excluding the top two domestic tiers and senior ‘A’ international teams.
IFAB will evaluate the trial outcomes in October and November 2025. Should the trials prove effective, the new rules may be introduced in the 2026-27 season.
IFAB anticipates that these changes will either eradicate or significantly diminish the frequency of goalkeepers wasting time.
