IFAB resumes discussion on Wenger s proposed offside rule: new offside line will benefit attackers

Hupu News, October 28th, Whether it is after the introduction of video assistant referees or before, offside penalties have always been one of the most controversial topics in the football world. Many times, just a few millimeters can determine the outcome of a game. Now, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) is considering a new rule that could completely change the definition of offside, an adjustment that could end those controversial decisions.

According to reports, the basis for this new proposal comes from former Arsenal coach and current FIFA Global Football Development Director Arsene Wenger. Wenger proposed a revolutionary idea as early as 2020: If the offensive player releases the ball, any part of his body that can be used to score is still on the same level as the last defensive player, then he will not be considered offside.

This change means in practice that an offensive player can be mostly in an offside position at the moment of passing the ball. As long as part of the body is still parallel to the defender, it is still legal. This will allow offensive players to gain more space and advantages when starting, thereby greatly improving the offensive nature of the game. Wenger summed up this concept in one sentence at the time: "In case of doubt, the penalty is in favor of the attacking team."

FIFA had experimented with this rule at Wenger's initiative, but the test was interrupted due to the outbreak of the new crown epidemic. Recently, two football technical advisory groups under IFAB, composed of players, coaches and referees, have restarted discussions.

However, any formal decision must wait until the IFAB annual general meeting held in February or March each year before voting. By then, the four British members of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will each have one vote, while FIFA will have four votes, controlled by President Infantino.

In addition to reforming the offside rule, IFAB is also studying another rule expansion regarding the goalkeeper's possession time. According to current regulations, the goalkeeper must release the ball within 8 seconds after taking full control of the ball. If the time is exceeded, his side will be awarded a corner kick by the opponent. IFAB plans to further extend similar countdown restrictions to throw-ins and goal kicks to speed up the pace of play. However, this adjustment will not officially take effect until the 2026/27 season at the earliest.