Time-wasting has long been a frustrating issue in football, with players doing whatever they can to waste precious seconds for their team. However, the Premier League and EFL have taken action to combat this problem and increase the amount of time the ball is in play during matches.
Last season, the average ball-in-play time in the Premier League was a mere 54 minutes, the lowest since recording began in the 2012-13 season. This decrease can be attributed to the introduction of VAR and additional substitutions, which disrupted the flow of the game. Recognizing the need for change, the Premier League has implemented new rules and guidelines for the 2023/24 season.
One of the most significant changes is the crackdown on time-wasting. Officials have become increasingly concerned about the lack of actual gameplay during matches. As a result, we can expect to see longer periods of added time, similar to what was witnessed during the 2022 World Cup, where games often had 10 or more minutes added on. Referees now have the authority to punish players who engage in impactful or effective time-wasting tactics.
Injury time is calculated by taking into account every incident that has halted or affected a match, including goals, substitutions, injuries, penalty kicks, and red cards. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure a fair and reasonable game of football, where fans get their money’s worth.
This style of injury time calculation was first introduced at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and is currently being used at the Women’s World Cup. These changes have sparked controversy within the football world, with players and managers expressing their disagreement with the authorities’ decision.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola voiced his opinion on the new rule after his team conceded a late equalizer to Arsenal during their Community Shield clash at Wembley. Guardiola expressed his frustration, stating that he felt not much had happened to warrant an eight-minute extension. He also criticized the lack of consultation with managers and players regarding these changes. Guardiola predicted that games would now last 100 minutes due to the additional time added for goals.
While these changes may be met with resistance from some, they are ultimately aimed at improving the game and ensuring a fair and entertaining experience for fans. By cracking down on time-wasting and increasing ball-in-play time, the Premier League and EFL hope to create a more dynamic and exciting footballing spectacle.
In conclusion, the Premier League and EFL have taken decisive action to address the issue of time-wasting in football. With new rules and guidelines in place, we can expect to see longer periods of added time and stricter punishments for players who engage in time-wasting tactics. While these changes may be met with criticism, they are ultimately aimed at improving the game and providing fans with a more enjoyable experience. Football lovers can look forward to a season with increased ball-in-play time and fewer interruptions.