English football will test a new rule to stop goalkeepers from faking injuries during matches.
Managers often use goalkeeper injury breaks to call their team over and give tactical advice. The new trial aims to end these stops.
How the Rule Works
One Player Off: If a physio runs onto the pitch to treat a goalkeeper, the team must play down one player for one minute.
10-Second Choice: The manager gets 10 seconds to pick which outfield player steps off.
Captain Steps Out: If the manager fails to pick in time, the team captain must leave the pitch.
Why Rulemakers Made the Change
Goalkeepers sometimes sit on the turf with no opponent near them. This pauses play and breaks the other team's momentum. It lets players run to the sideline to drink water and hear tactical advice from their coach.
Goalkeepers with real injuries will still get full care on the pitch. However, their team must play short for one minute after play restarts.
Leagues Testing the Rule
The trial starts this season across professional English soccer:
Premier League
English Football League
Women's Super League
National League
