As the Premier League gears up for the 2024/25 season fans and players alike should be aware of some key rule changes. These updates aim to improve the flow of the game and ensure fair play. Here’s what’s new this season.
More Substitutes Warming Up
A small but impactful change is the increase in the number of substitutes allowed to warm up during the match. Only three players from each team could warm up on the sidelines at the same time previously but now five players per team are permitted to do so.
This adjustment aligns with the rule allowing teams to make five substitutions during a match. It’s a change that could keep the game pace high with more players ready to step in at any moment.
Changes to the Multiball System and Added Time
The multi-ball system which speeds up play by having multiple balls available around the pitch remains in place. Fifteen balls will be in use to ensure the game continues quickly when the ball goes out of play.
But there’s a new twist this season. Ball assistants behind the goals can now return a ball directly to the goalkeeper for a restart. This should help keep the game flowing smoothly.
Meanwhile, in terms of added time, a more precise method will be used this season. When a goal is scored the match officials will only start counting stoppage time if the delay between the goal and the next kick-off is longer than 30 seconds.
This change is expected to reduce the overall stoppage time in matches as the average number of goals scored per match last season was 3.28. These new rules are designed to keep the action moving and reduce unnecessary delays. As always the Premier League aims to bring excitement and fair competition to fans around the world.
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