Major League Soccer (MLS) and the Premier League are considering or have implemented rules to address time-wasting tactics, specifically regarding players receiving treatment on the field. These changes aim to increase the actual playing time in matches.
major League Soccer (MLS) Time-Wasting Rules
Major League soccer has implemented a rule requiring players who receive treatment for an injury lasting over 15 seconds to be off the field for a minimum of two minutes, wiht limited exceptions. This rule has been in effect for the last two years, beginning with the 2023 season.
Detail: The rule is designed to discourage players from feigning or exaggerating injuries to disrupt the flow of the game and waste time. The two-minute off-field period begins when the medical staff enters the field of play. Exceptions might potentially be granted in cases of serious injuries requiring extended medical attention.
Example: during a match between LAFC and seattle Sounders FC on August 26, 2023, a player received treatment for approximately 20 seconds and was subsequently required to leave the field for the full two-minute period, impacting the team’s tactical setup. ESPN reported on the implementation and initial impact of this rule.
Premier League Stance on Time-Wasting
The Premier League is reportedly opposed to extending the minimum off-field time beyond 30 seconds for players receiving treatment. This contrasts with the MLS’s two-minute rule.
Detail: The Premier League’s reluctance stems from concerns that a longer mandatory absence could unfairly penalize players with genuine injuries. Officials are focused on adding significant stoppage time at the end of each half to account for time lost during play,rather than implementing a fixed off-field period. The Premier League is prioritizing referee discretion in managing time-wasting.
Example: In November 2023, The Guardian reported that Premier League clubs voted against adopting a rule similar to MLS’s two-minute injury rule, citing concerns about its impact on player welfare and game management. The Premier League instead focused on increasing added time, with some matches seeing over 10 minutes of stoppage time added.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) and Rule Changes
The International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body responsible for the Laws of the Game, has been actively discussing ways to address time-wasting.
Detail: IFAB’s discussions have centered on increasing added time and perhaps implementing stricter guidelines for medical staff entering the field. The goal is to ensure that the time added at the end of each half accurately reflects all stoppages during play. These discussions are ongoing and may lead to further rule changes in the future.
Example: In February 2024,Sky Sports reported that IFAB is trialing changes to address time-wasting,including potential restrictions on the timing of substitutions and stricter penalties for delaying the restart of play.
As of January 19, 2024, there have been no further major developments regarding these rules beyond the initial implementations and discussions reported above.
