By Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has moved to eliminate one of football’s most controversial delay tactics ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Under a new directive approved by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), players will no longer be allowed to gather around the technical area for team talks whenever a goalkeeper goes down injured during a match.
FIFA’s Head of Refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, confirmed the rule change following IFAB’s approval of an amendment to match protocols.
According to the new regulation, when a goalkeeper requires medical attention, players from both teams must remain on the field of play or gather only in the centre circle.
They will not be permitted to move to the touchline or technical area for impromptu coaching sessions.
The practice, commonly referred to as a “goalkeeper tactical timeout,” has attracted criticism in recent seasons, with managers accused of exploiting injury stoppages to relay tactical instructions and disrupt the momentum of opposing teams.
The controversy gained prominence last November when Leeds United manager Daniel Farke accused Manchester City of “bending the rules” after goalkeeper Ederson remained on the ground during a match at Elland Road, allowing his teammates to receive instructions from the bench.
Speaking at a FIFA workshop for coaches, Collina stressed that referees would strictly enforce the new measure.
“The goalkeeper has the right to receive treatment, but the rest of the players do not have the right to leave the field for a team talk,” Collina said. “We will stop that practice at the World Cup.”
He explained that while referees are expected to act proactively, disciplinary sanctions will generally not be issued unless players deliberately refuse to comply with the directive.
The rule forms part of IFAB’s broader efforts to improve the flow of matches, reduce unnecessary stoppages, and curb time-wasting tactics.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to feature an expanded 48-team format across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, FIFA believes stricter management of stoppages will be crucial to maintaining the pace and integrity of the competition.