Löw was annoyed about the return in the meantime
The few dissenting votes when issuing the exception rule referred to a possible preference for top teams with a broader squad. CFOs at some clubs also raised concerns: the more players there are, the more bonus payments are due, and some contracts are automatically renewed once a certain number of appearances has been reached. The concerns could be dispelled, meanwhile there is hardly any objection.
On the other hand, there was trouble when UEFA returned to the original rule with three changes in autumn 2020. “The whole time there were five changes, I thought that made sense. Now it’s being reversed.”, ex-national coach Joachim Löw had criticized after the first Nations League games. “Right now it would have needed more opportunities to change. Some walked on the gums – that’s when the injuries happen.” UEFA gave in and made five changes possible.
Five changes are an option, not a requirement
Substitutions are handled very differently in the leagues. the premier league in England is the only top league that has not yet allowed the five changes. She could continue to do so if the proposal were approved by the IFAB, as five is just the maximum number of transfers – there is no obligation to max that number. “Basically, each competition could then decide for itself whether or not to use this option.”says IFAB Managing Director Brud.
Below the top leagues, the IFAB already allowed up to five changes, many amateur leagues in Germany allow four changes per team on this basis.
Extra change remains in overtime
According to information from the sports show, the additional change in extra time is not up for debate. Competitions may allow an additional change to the actual quota in overtime.
the DFB allowed this at the time of the three substitutions but not at the time of the five substitutions. This led to confusion in the DFB Cup game between Preussen Münster and VfL Wolfsburg, which ended in a game evaluation.
Another rule change: the goalkeeper’s foot may be behind the line
The rulers decided on further clarifications. Most importantly, with the rule that the goalkeeper taking a penalty kick must have one foot on or above the goal line, that foot can also be behind the line.
“It was interpreted that way in practice, now it’s stipulated,” says Alex Feuerherdt from the referee podcast “Collinas Erben” in an interview with the sports show.
IFAB – what is it?
The rules of football don’t set the FIFA, but traditionally the IFAB, founded in 1886. But FIFA has a big say in that. Four of the eight voting members come from FIFA, the other four votes are held by the four British associations from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
A three-quarters majority at the General Assembly is required to pass a rule change. So FIFA can’t get anything done without the British, and the reverse isn’t possible either. In most cases, however, agreement is reached in advance anyway.