End of Tricks? New Rule in English League Starting This Season

England's top leagues have agreed on a trial to eliminate goalkeeper injury faking in the final minutes. Under the new procedure, treatment for a goalkeeper will force the coach to remove an outfield player for a full minute, playing with a numerical disadvantage. If the pilot succeeds, the rule may become official and permanent worldwide.

England's top leagues, including the Premier League, EFL, National League, and WSL, have agreed on a dramatic trial aimed at eliminating the phenomenon of goalkeeper injury faking in the final minutes. According to the new procedure, if a goalkeeper receives medical treatment on the pitch, the coach will have 10 seconds to select an outfield player to leave the pitch for a full minute, and the team will play with a numerical disadvantage. If the coach does not choose in time, the captain automatically goes off. Exceptions include serious injuries, concussion, bleeding injuries, fouls on the goalkeeper, or collisions. The trial was born from the perception that only a real threat of numerical inferiority will deter coaches. If it receives final approval from the International Football Association Board, the trial will begin at the League Cup match between Tranmere and Rochdale. If the pilot succeeds, the change could become a permanent global rule starting from the 2027/28 season.