If play is stopped because the goalkeeper requires on-field assessment or treatment, the goalkeeper can stay on the pitch. However, one outfield player from the goalkeeper's team must leave the field for at least one minute after play restarts. The manager has 10 seconds to nominate which player leaves. If they fail to do so, the captain must leave instead.
The aim is to remove the incentive for goalkeepers to go down with minor or feigned injuries simply to:
break the opposition's momentum, give teammates a rest, or allow the coach to deliver tactical instructions. There are important exceptions
The rule does not apply in situations such as:
a collision, a foul, bleeding, or another genuine injury requiring immediate treatment.
This is a trial for the 2026–27 season. The Football Association, the Premier League, the EFL, the National League, and the Women's Super League will monitor how it works before deciding whether it should become a permanent law.
Under the trial:If play is stopped because the goalkeeper requires on-field assessment or treatment, the goalkeeper can stay on the pitch.However, one outfield player from the goalkeeper's team must leave the field for at least one minute after play