Five new rule changes as the Premier League returns for 26/27 season

The new season kicks off on Friday night when Arsenal take on Coventry – here are some law changes to look out for

• Referees will enforce a five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal kicks to tackle time-wasting, with failures resulting in reversed throw-ins or corners given to the opposition.
• Stricter stoppage rules will require injured players to leave the pitch for at least one minute, while tactical goalkeeper timeouts will force managers to temporarily remove an outfield player for a minute.
• Substitutions must be completed within 10 seconds, with incoming replacements delayed entry for a minimum of one extra minute if the departing player takes too long.
• VAR capabilities have been expanded to overturn incorrect second yellow cards and intervene on pre-set-piece attacking fouls that lead to goals, penalties, or disciplinary actions.
• The Premier League plans to maintain high thresholds for VAR interventions and general foul challenges, though referees have been instructed to crack down on grappling during set-pieces.