English football will test new rules for time lost by goalkeepers.

English football is set to implement new rules to combat time-wasting by goalkeepers in an initiative that promises to change the dynamics of matches next season. Starting from the 2026-27 season, the new measures aim to prevent goalkeepers from using injury stoppages as a strategy to disrupt the flow of the game and receive tactical instructions.

The proposal, backed by several entities such as Pro Ref, the Football Association (FA), the Premier League, the EFL, the WSL, and the National League, is still awaiting approval from IFAB. According to a joint statement from the regulatory bodies, “as part of the trial, if the game is stopped due to an injury to a goalkeeper, the coach must name an outfield player to leave the pitch immediately.” This player must remain off the field for a minimum of one minute after the game resumes.

The main objective of this measure is to ensure that genuine injuries receive the necessary medical attention while eliminating any competitive advantage that may result from stoppages. There are exceptions for situations where goalkeepers require immediate treatment following fouls, collisions, or bleeding, thus allowing the integrity of the player to be prioritized.

This initiative comes after the successful introduction of the eight-second rule for goalkeepers in the previous season, which aimed to increase the flow of the game and reduce time-wasting. In addition, referees will implement a five-second countdown to penalize players who delay restarts, including throw-ins and goal kicks, thereby reinforcing the need for a more dynamic and faster game.

The adoption of these new rules could have a significant impact on how matches are conducted, especially in critical situations where time management becomes a decisive factor. With increasing pressure on referees to keep the game moving, these changes are expected to contribute to a more fluid and exciting spectacle for fans. It remains to be seen how the IFAB will respond and how these measures will be received within the football community.