Nicolas Jover
Image credit: Getty Images
A proposed rule change in the Premier League could provide Arsenal with additional opportunities to capitalise on their growing set-piece dominance. The new regulation would see goalkeepers punished for time-wasting by conceding a corner kick, potentially increasing scoring chances for teams like Arsenal.
Currently, referees can penalise goalkeepers for holding onto the ball too long by awarding an indirect free-kick. However, this rule is rarely enforced due to the significant advantage it grants the attacking team and the delays caused by setting up defensive walls.
To tackle time-wasting more effectively, governing bodies are trialing an alternative punishment. According toThe Times, goalkeepers who hold the ball for more than eight seconds could be penalised with a corner kick. Officials would count down from five seconds as a warning, encouraging quicker play.
READ MORE: Arsenal man who is very important to Mikel Arteta signs new long-term contract
This rule has been tested in English youth leagues and in Malta, where it was found that goalkeepers stayed within the eight-second limit in all 796 instances monitored. Italy’s under-20 league will soon adopt the trial, with a throw-in replacing the corner kick as a penalty. However, awarding a corner is considered a stronger deterrent and could gain broader support if proven effective.
Arsenal
Nicolas Jover has been central to Arsenal’s corner kick success (Image credit: Getty Images)
If implemented, the new rule could play to Arsenal’s strengths. Under manager Mikel Arteta and set-piece coach Nicolas Jover, Arsenal have emerged as one of Europe’s most dangerous teams from dead-ball situations.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW.ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
This season, Arsenal’s set-piece prowess was on display during their recent 2-0 win over Manchester United, with both goals—scored by Jurrien Timber and William Saliba—coming from corners. The victory not only highlighted Arsenal’s tactical precision but also brought them within seven points of Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Jover’s meticulous approach has transformed Arsenal into the league’s top scorers from corners.
Should the new rule gain approval, it could redefine how teams strategise around goalkeeping and time management. For Arsenal, it represents an opportunity to further leverage their set-piece expertise as they push for success on multiple fronts this season.
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal eyeing “next Thierry Henry” in ambitious transfer push