Goalkeepers' Fake Injuries Face New Crackdown

Starting in the 2026-27 season, English football will trial a new rule aimed at curbing goalkeepers who feign injury to disrupt match momentum. Approved by the International Football Association Board, this initiative is championed by major football organizations in England.

The trial mandates that if play is stopped for a goalkeeper's injury, the head coach must designate an outfield player to exit the field. This player must remain off for a minimum of one minute following the game's restart. Should a coach fail to nominate a player within ten seconds, the team captain will be automatically selected.

This new rule includes exceptions for situations like collisions between players, fouls on the goalkeeper, or instances where the goalkeeper is bleeding. The intention is to ensure that legitimate injuries receive proper medical care while preventing players from gaining a tactical advantage through fake stoppages.

This trial follows previous efforts to improve game flow, such as last season's eight-second rule for goalkeepers holding the ball. Further rule adjustments for the upcoming season include a five-second countdown for delays in throw-ins and goal-kicks, and a ten-second limit for players leaving the pitch when substituted.