The International Football Association Board (IFAB) is considering the adoption of former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger’s offside rule proposal, which could significantly change the current format.
The proposal states that an attacker is onside if any part of their body capable of scoring a goal excluding the arms is in line with the last outfield defender.
It also notes that an offside would be called only if there is clear and obvious space between the attacker and the defender.
This approach aims to address ongoing controversies over marginal offside calls, particularly when an attacker is just a fraction ahead of the defending player.
Antoine Semenyo will start in every Premier League team – Aston Villa legend Gabriel Agbonlahor
According to Spanish media outlet Diario AS, IFAB has begun the process of officially introducing what is being referred to as “Wenger’s Law” for determining offside positions.
After two years of limited attention, journalist Carrusel Iturralde Gonzalez has reported that the proposal has been resubmitted for consideration and could be approved.
“It will be discussed at the annual meeting attended by 23 players and 11 referees under Wenger’s leadership; if approved, it will be forwarded to the general assembly scheduled for February,” the statement said.
If the rule is approved, it is expected to lead to an increase in goals, which would compel teams to reshape their defensive strategies accordingly.
SB/JE
Meanwhile, watch the latest Sports Check interview with Alex Kotey, the GFA Referees Manager below: