FIFA are considering a few changes to the rules of football in the near future, and they are currently in the process of testing out the changes in a youth tournament called the Future of Football cup.
Youth teams from PSV Eindhoven, AZ Alkmaar, RB Leipzig and ClubBrugge are currently participating in the competition.
FIFA are trying out a new football system with many changes: -2 halves with 30 minutes each. -The game clock stops when the ball goes out of play. -Unlimited substitutions. -Throw-ins played with feet. -5 minute suspension for a yellow card. -Free kicks can be dribbled immediately.
According to reports, one of the rules FIFA are looking to alter is to shorten football matches.
The authorities believe that having two 30 minute halves of action would add to the excitement and interest in games.
Recently, Florentino Perez claimed that traditional football matches are driving the youth away from the game because they are too long.
FIFA are also looking to combat time-wasting by stopping the clock every time the ball goes out of play.
Meanwhile, the teams would be allowed unlimited substitutions throughout the 60 minutes. It could help teams keep their squad fresh throughout a demanding football season.
They are also looking to introduce the sin-bin system inspired by sports like rugby, where a player receiving a yellow card would have to leave the pitch for five minutes.
FIFA are also looking to cut out throw-ins from the game. The players will be encouraged to take dead balls from the touchline with their feet instead of throwing with their hands.
These ideas are still in their infancy stage, and it will be interesting to see if the trials are successful in youth competitions.
If implemented, these rules could completely transform football as we know it, and it will be interesting to see how the fans react to these proposals.
