A new rule, dubbed the ‘anti-Arsenal law’, is to be introduced at the World Cup, with an England goal used as a case study for what officials are looking to cut out.
Set pieces have become a huge part of the game – especially in the Premier League – and FIFA and IFAB are looking to crack down on pushing and shoving during them.
The rule will see players penalised for obstructing or preventing an opponent from playing the ball at free kicks and corners. Originating from basketball, the law essentially stops players acting as blockers.
Players can be penalised for the offence prior to the ball being kicked. Changes will come into play for the World Cup and in all major leagues from the start of July.
England’s goal against Uruguay in the two sides’ friendly clash in March – scored by Ben White – was used as a case study for a goal that would have been disallowed, with the likes of Adam Wharton and Harvey Barnes seen to block defenders from the corner.
The new rule is expected to have a major impact on Premier League sides. Arsenal’s physical approach to set pieces this season has been highlighted, with the Gunners scoring 25 set piece goals in the Premier League.
Are FIFA right to clamp down on set-piece grappling?Yes – it’s become a farceNo – there’s nothing wrong with it
And the new rule is just one of many that have come into play for the World Cup, which starts on June 11.
Players that cover their mouths with their hand, arm or shirt during a confrontation will now be given a red card. It comes after the alleged racism storm surrounding Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni and Vinicius Jr – which Prestianni denied.
The rule does not apply to all scenarios, however – players who cover their mouths during ‘friendly’ conversations will not be disciplined.
Competitors who leave the field of play to protest a refereeing decision – as happened with Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations final – will now be shown a red card, and, if a team leaves the field of play, they will forfeit the match.
Players will also have 10 seconds to leave the field if they are being substituted, or the substitute will only be allowed to enter at the first stoppage after a minute of play has passed.
Elsewhere, with goal kicks and throw-ins, players will have five seconds, indicated visually by referees, to return the ball to play, or the opposition team will be awarded a corner or throw-in respectively.
Teams are also now not allowed to have a timeout with coaches if a goalkeeper is receiving treatment for an injury during a game.
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