Arsene Wenger has made plenty of headlines in recent years for his comments on potentially changing the offside law. In a recent interview, he explained why he dislikes the current interpretation of the rule and explained that a change could happen in the near future.
The iconic Arsenal manager – perhaps the greatest in the club's history – now works as FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development. His current role, however, will not see him play any part in potentially changing the offside rule.
Indeed, speaking on beIN Sports during coverage of Inter Milan's thrilling 4-3 Champions League triumph over Barcelona, the Frenchman outlined why he wants the rule to be change but revealed that IFAB (International Football Association Board) will make a decision in one year.
Wenger Claims Modern Offside Doesn't Work With VAR
A decision will be made in one year, but not by him
Wenger explained that the introduction of VAR has reduced the 'benefit of doubt' that attacking players used to get. He feels it makes goalscoring too difficult and so a change would be best:
"In 1990, we decided that [there is] no offside anymore when you are on the same line [as the defender].
"In case of any doubt, the doubt benefits the striker. That means when there's a fraction, the striker could get the advantage. With VAR this advantage disappeared... It's frustrating.
"That's why I proposed that, as long as any part of your body is in the same line as the defender, then you're not offside."
He then added:
"In one year, a decision will be made. By IFAB, not by me."
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The former Arsenal manager wasn't happy with the decision
It's long been known that Wenger wants to adapt the rule, which would mean that 'there has to be daylight between the attacker and defender for an offside to be called.' However, not everyone is on board with the idea.
Notably, Jamie Carragher called it a 'terrible' suggestion. He explained in May 2024: "This will be terrible for the game as teams will defend completely differently than we see now. Lots of lows blocks & teams being negative. How would you defend a set piece!!
"We don’t need more advantage for the attacker, the game is seeing more goals scored than ever!!!!"
It will certainly be interesting to see what IFAB decide in one year's time.