Revolutionary Rule Change Threatens to End Man City's Controversial Tactics
Soccer's governing bodies are reportedly exploring drastic measures to address time-wasting tactics involving goalkeepers simulating injuries, with the potential requirement for an outfield player to temporarily leave the pitch being one option under consideration.
This strategy has been adopted by an increasing number of teams since regulations mandated that any outfield player receiving medical attention must exit the field for 30 seconds. Goalkeepers remain exempt from this rule, enabling these shot-stoppers to disrupt match flow by collapsing to the ground for treatment, effectively creating "strategic breaks" that allow coaches to communicate tactical adjustments to their players without consequence.
Manchester City faced allegations of employing this tactic during their recent fixture. Gianluigi Donnarumma received medical attention during the second half of Saturday's encounter against Leeds United, providing Pep Guardiola an opportunity to address his squad after they had been unsettled by the visitors' impressive spell of play.
Guardiola rejected any suggestions of gamesmanship, though even if Donnarumma was exaggerating his condition, he wouldn't be breaking new ground. This practice has become so prevalent that soccer's rule-makers engaged in "extensive" discussions about countering such time-wasting methods in October, according to BBC Sport.
IFAB, the International Football Association Board, and the Technical Advisory Panels (TAP) reportedly endorsed the concept of requiring an outfield player to spend 30 seconds off the pitch when their goalkeeper needs treatment. The designated player would presumably be chosen by their coach, potentially creating various complications.
Another proposal involved prohibiting players from approaching the touchline during these medical breaks.
IFAB is expected to revisit this issue—along with other potential rule modifications—during their annual business meeting scheduled for Jan. 20, 2026.
Gianluigi Donnarumma Called Out by Daniel Farke
Leeds manager Daniel Farke highlighted this contentious matter after witnessing his team's rhythm against Manchester City disrupted by Donnarumma's off-the-ball incident. "Everyone understands why he went down, correct? It's not exactly a hidden secret," the German tactician expressed his frustration.
"It's something we can openly discuss. You're welcome to ask my opinion on why he collapsed. The reasoning was clear."
Farke acknowledged that Donnarumma and City weren't breaking any existing rules, though he questioned whether the current regulations are appropriate. "It's permitted under current laws. It's clever. Whether I approve of it, whether it aligns with fair play principles, whether it should be allowed—I'll keep those thoughts private," he stated with irritation.
"I'll leave it to the governing bodies to develop solutions. It's technically legal. I questioned the fourth official at that moment, 'Are you planning to intervene?' He responded, 'No, we're powerless. There's nothing we can do.'
"We're aware this occurs, but if we don't teach our players proper conduct regarding fair play and sportsmanship, and they simply exploit loopholes for their benefit, even fabricating injuries to gain extra coaching time, it's something I personally disapprove of.
"Since it's within current regulations, I cannot formally object. We need to consider how to address this situation and how to provide proper guidance."
This may not remain within the rules for much longer.