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English Football Trials New Rules to Curb Goalkeeper Timeouts

Source: BBC Sport - Published: 27 Jul 2026 16:22

English football will trial a new rule aimed at eliminating tactical timeouts by goalkeepers during matches. If a goalkeeper requires treatment, a coach will have 10 seconds to remove an outfield player for one minute, with the captain stepping off if no choice is made. This initiative follows concerns over goalkeepers feigning injury to disrupt play, particularly noted in recent seasons.

The first match to implement this trial is set for the Carabao Cup preliminary round on August 1. The effectiveness of this measure will be evaluated by Ifab, with potential for a global law change by the 2027-28 season.

Briefed by Gibik from the original source.