Already introduced in Sweden – can be used all over the world
Just started learning the offside rule?
Then we have bad news.
Following a suggestion from one of the Arsenal stars, this fall they played a new variant in a pair of Swedish series.
We have a new offside rule in Swedish football. One that can be served all over the world.
After the summer break, the F19 and U21 series have changed to a version that will enhance offensive play. The difference can be seen in the above graphic, but can be described relatively simply as:
Like pulling skates in hockey
Previously, attacking players were not allowed to place any part of their body (other than the arm) in front of the last defender when making a pass. According to the new rule, it is enough to have a part of the body (other than the arm) in line with the back. So you can stand offside one meter – in the classic sense – but extend one foot behind you and then it counts as to the side.
It’s almost like pulling skates over the blue line in hockey and avoiding offside, explains Per Widén, Head of Development at SvFF.
Changing the rule is a test that he originally started Arsene Wenger. The Frenchman has coached Arsenal for 22 years, but is now the head of FIFA’s global development work, and in this position he has tried to find ways to make the sport more attractive.
Should I stop the bus?
The test takes place in the Netherlands, Italy and Sweden during the fall semester and will then be qualitatively assessed through interviews with players, managers and referees. If all goes well, the offside rule in all football can be changed, but any such change is probably several years away.
FIFA chose us because they have great faith in Swedish football and its structure. Plus I think we are the only country in the world that films and broadcasts F19 matches. Per Widén says: “We’ve already scored the spring games and they can be compared to the fall games with the new rule.
What is the point of change?
They want, hope and believe that there will be more goals in the matches. They want to prefer an offensive game. But as an old football coach, I immediately think: How should I defend now? Should I stop the bus?
Have you heard anything from teams that have already tried the new rule?
– Not right. But the biggest challenge was probably for the judges, who have to follow the different rules depending on the series they are ruling on.