It’s back! The first game of the 2019/2020 Premier League season kicks off later today with Liverpool at home to newly-promoted Norwich City.
While the majority of conversation will no doubt center on VAR, there are nine new rules that will also change how the beautiful game is played.
As reported on fourfourtwo.com, here is a summary of the new rules. The question is, will they make things better or worse?
Rule 1 – Substitutions
To curb time-wasting, players will have to leave the pitch at the nearest point to them
Rule 2 – Free-kick walls
When there is a defensive wall of three or more defenders, the attackers are not allowed within one yard of the wall
Rule 3 – Drop balls
RIP drop balls, basically
Rule 4 – Goalkeepers’ behaviour for penalties
No touching of the goal frame, no movement, one part of boot touching goal-line when penalty is taken, no standing behind the line
Rule 5 – Goal-kicks
A goal-kick is in play from the moment the ball is kicked
Rule 6 – Accidental handballs
A goal scored directly from the hand/arm (even if accidental) and a player creating a goalscoring opportunity after having gained control of the ball using hand/arm (even if accidental) will no longer be allowed
Rule 7 – Celebrations
A player can be booked for their celebration even if the goal is disallowed
Rule 8 – Head-to-head records
If two teams are tied on points, goal difference, goals for and goals against, then their place in the league will be determined by their head-to-head record
Rule 9 – Scoring from a goalkeeper’s throw
If the ball goes into the opposition goal direct from a goalkeeper’s throw, a goal-kick will be awarded.
For more details, visit foufourtwo.com.
