Among these changes is the possibility of playing football with a stopped clock, an idea proposed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino in response to time-wasting, which he views as a blight on modern football.
IFAB to make football a more exciting and dynamic sport
Football, the most popular sport in the world, may undergo significant changes shortly as the International Football Association Board considers implementing several new rules. Among these changes is the possibility of playing football with a stopped clock, an idea proposed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino in response to time-wasting, which he views as a blight on modern football. While it is uncertain if this idea will be accepted, other changes are already set to be adopted in the 2023-24 season. One of the most significant changes is that football games will no longer be 90 minutes long, and the offside rule will also be modified. These changes are currently being debated and discussed by IFAB to make football a more exciting and dynamic sport. However, the authorities will only be implemented after some time and will require further review and approval.
FIFA has decided to limit celebrations to a minute or a minute and a half
Another rule that will come into effect on June 30th is the inclusion of goal celebrations in added time. Currently, goal celebrations can go on for several minutes, disrupting the game flow and wasting precious time. To address this issue, FIFA has decided to limit celebrations to a minute or a minute and a half, adding any extra time to the game. In addition to the abovementioned changes, several new rules will be implemented. For instance, goals scored when substitutes creep onto the pitch will no longer be disallowed as long as they are not involved in the goal. Instead, players who were on the pitch can be cautioned.
Moreover, it will be mandatory for all teams to have a captain with a distinctive armband on the field of play, and the fourth official will be allowed to assist the referee in the same way as other match officials on the field.
A player will no longer be considered in an offside position if they receive the ball from an opponent who deliberately played it
The anti-Emi Martinez rule will also be enforced, prohibiting goalkeepers from distracting the penalty taker, for example, by delaying the penalty or touching the goalposts, crossbar or goal net. Similarly, a player will no longer be considered in an offside position if they receive the ball from an opponent who deliberately played it. This will apply if the player has control of the ball and can pass to a teammate, gain possession of the ball, or clear the ball. Several criteria should be used as indicators to determine if a player has control of the ball. For instance, the ball should be moving slowly, the direction of the ball should be predictable, and the player should have time to coordinate their body movement. Additionally, a ball on the ground is easier to play than a ball in the air.
Some changes will come into effect in the 2023-24 season
Finally, the coach cannot be cautioned for something that happens in the technical area without being identified, and referees must make it clear who is warned in the dugouts. A defending player who leaves the field of play without the referee’s permission is considered to be on the goal line or touchline, while an attacking player may step or remain off the field of play so as not to be involved in active play. If the player re-enters from the goal line and becomes involved in play before the next stoppage in play, they are considered to be standing on the goal line for offside purposes.
In conclusion, football is a sport that continues to evolve, and the proposed changes aim to make it more exciting and dynamic. While some changes are still under review, others will come into effect in the 2023-24 season. By limiting goal celebrations, enforcing the anti-Emi Martinez rule, and modifying the offside rule, football may become a more fast-paced and engaging sport, drawing in even more fans worldwide.