England: new rule tried to discourage goalkeeper “injuries” used to disrupt the flow of play

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has approved a joint request from the Premier League, EFL, the FA, WSL Football, Pro Ref (ex PGMOL) and the National League to trial a new rule during the 2026-27 season aimed at discouraging goalkeeper injuries used to disrupt the flow of play, the English Football Association announced on 27 July 2026.

The trial will be implemented across the men’s and women’s professional game in England. It is designed to address situations where goalkeeper injuries are used to break the momentum of a match, slow the game down or allow coaches to deliver tactical instructions. It will not be used below National League Step 2 (the sixth tier) in the men’s game.

"If play is stopped because of a goalkeeper injury, the manager/head coach will be required…