English football officials are preparing to test a new regulation intended to prevent goalkeepers from using injury breaks as unauthorized tactical pauses. According to BBC Sport, teams may soon be required to play with one fewer player for a minute if their goalkeeper requires medical attention. This initiative is supported by the FA, the Premier League, the EFL, the National League, and the Women’s Super League, pending authorization from the International Football Association Board (IFAB).
Should a referee permit treatment for a goalkeeper, the team manager has 10 seconds to select an outfield player to leave the pitch for a one-minute penalty. Failure to make this choice will result in the team captain being forced off the field. The pilot program could launch as early as August 1 during the Carabao Cup match between Tranmere Rovers and Rochdale.
This policy addresses frequent complaints regarding goalkeepers who appear to exaggerate injuries to disrupt opponents or enable late-game tactical briefings. Leeds United manager Daniel Farke previously spoke out against this trend, specifically citing an instance involving Manchester City’s Gianluigi Donnarumma. The rule includes specific exemptions, such as instances involving concussions, collisions, bleeding, or fouls requiring immediate attention.
IFAB has invited various leagues to test solutions for this issue, as head of referees Pierluigi Collina noted the growing problem. While the Australian A-League is planning its own version of the rule, English football leaders hope this deterrent will effectively discourage teams from manipulating match momentum. Findings from these trials will inform potential global updates to the Laws of the Game by the 2027-28 season.
