Serie A implements new time-wasting rules amid player injury concerns

New anti-time-wasting regulations in Serie A have resulted in nearly ten minutes of additional effective playing time. These rules include visible countdowns for goal kicks and goalkeeper possession, as well as strict timelines for substitutions. For instance, during the Frosinone-Juventus match, a goalkeeper's delay in a goal kick resulted in a corner being awarded to the opposing team.

Additionally, players being substituted must now leave the pitch within ten seconds of the board being displayed. Failure to comply prevents the substitute from entering until the next stoppage after one minute of effective play.

However, these stricter enforcement measures may be contributing to player injuries. Following the Udinese-Como match, players Palma and Zaniolo both left the pitch with suspected muscle issues and must undergo MRI scans to determine their availability. While Gueye's exit was attributed to cramps, the increased intensity and reduced downtime linked to the new rules are being monitored for their impact on player physical condition.