The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) and the British football associations have rejected Arsène Wenger’s proposal to change the offside rule. Discussions on this matter will take place in London in January and in Wales in February. The new interpretation proposed by Wenger envisages an offside being called only when the attacking player is fully ahead of the last defender with their entire body. The current rule is stricter, considering any part of the body. The British federations and UEFA consider the proposed changes too radical and fear they could lead to more defensive tactics. They plan to propose their own compromise option, excluding legs and head from the criteria for determining offside. Before a potential implementation in the 2026/27 season, the rule will be tested in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
About the Author
