According to reports, FIFA currently has no plans to introduce new measures to tackle pulling and holding inside the penalty area during corners. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) stated that the issue “has not worsened”.
Physical battles from corners have become increasingly fierce in the Premier League this season, especially before the ball enters the box, with players pulling, blocking, shoving and crowding the goalkeeper. Liverpool manager Arne Slot said ahead of the recent round that the Premier League is no longer “pleasant to watch”. Manchester United goalkeeper Lammens said after facing Everton that he was “forced to go behind the goal line to come for crosses”.
Arsenal, league leaders in the Premier League, have scored 16 goals from corners this season, equaling the Premier League record. The Gunners have faced some criticism for their aggressive physical approach during corner attacks.
However, at the IFAB summit held in Cardiff last weekend, the issue of physical contact during corners was judged not serious enough to require intervention. The summit also confirmed several new rules aimed at reducing time-wasting, including time limits for throw-ins and goal kicks.
Ian Maxwell, CEO of the Scottish FA and IFAB member, said: “We did not discuss this issue specifically. As for whether such behavior has escalated as the season progresses, it is inevitable during a season, but I am not sure if the situation is actually worsening.”
Under the Laws of the Game, the ball is only in play once it is taken from a set piece. Therefore, referees cannot award a foul until the match has officially started. Despite this technicality in the rulebook, Maxwell said referees can still act within the rules once the ball is in play: “It is clearly covered in the rules, because if there is grappling in the corner area, a penalty can actually be awarded, so this can be sanctioned within the existing rules.”
