A new revolution is underway within FIFA! During the World Sports Summit in Dubai, the president of the body Gianni Infantino clearly opened the door to the implementation of a rule which will shake up the game. This is the “Wenger law”, named after the former Arsenal manager, now director of football development within the International Federation.
This rule concerns offside and aims to favor attackers, who would no longer be penalized for half a toe or a piece of shoulder ahead of the last opposing defender.
“Let’s take the example of the offside rule, which has evolved over the years and which currently requires the attacker to position himself behind the defender, at his height”explained Gianni Infantino.
A real ordeal for the defenders
“In the future, the attacker may have to be completely in front to be considered offside.”he added. Arsène Wenger imagined this important change to enhance the spectacle and increase the number of goals. Already tested in youth tournaments in 2023, in Sweden and Italy, this rule will be discussed on January 20 during the IFAB annual meeting.
If it is approved by the institution responsible for establishing the laws of football, the daily A.S. indicates that it could be applied from next season. A new headache in sight for the linesmen. And above all a real ordeal for the defenders who will still not have the VAR to correct a possible misalignment and will now have to have eyes in their backs…
