The Premier League is preparing for significant changes to its rules concerning injured players and their return to the field. The International Football Association Board (Ifab) is expected to approve new regulations that will require injured players to remain off the pitch for at least one minute after receiving treatment. This decision comes as a response to ongoing concerns about players feigning injury to waste time and disrupt the flow of the game.

Currently, under the existing rules, the Premier League has implemented an arbitrary 30-second break for injured players since the start of the 2023/24 season, allowing them to be treated on field before re-entering. However, the lack of clarity around injury protocols has led to criticism from clubs, most notably Manchester United, and player apologies, further highlighting the need for a standardized approach across leagues. By enforcing a stricter rule, the league hopes to maintain the pace of the game and minimize interruptions due to questionable injury claims.

Ifab's upcoming meeting is crucial as it addresses various aspects of the laws of the game, with player safety being a priority alongside fair play. The anticipated ruling will not only affect the Premier League but could set a precedent for other leagues worldwide, reinforcing the importance of maintaining integrity within the sport as it navigates growing criticism of time-wasting tactics and game management issues.