English Football Trials New Rule to Ban Goalkeeper Timeouts

The English FA has introduced a trial aimed at banning goalkeeper tactical timeouts, restricting the period a keeper can hold the ball to speed up match flow. The rule will be enforced across the Premier League and lower divisions for the current season, with findings set to influence future regulations.

Officials say the experiment seeks to make games fairer and more entertaining, while clubs must adapt their defensive strategies. Analysts predict the change could lead to more dynamic and continuous play.