Premier League referees were told to crack down on intentional pulling this season, which could lead to more penalty kicks from corners. Referees are asked to pay close attention to the situation where players block their opponents with their arms, focus on their opponents rather than scramble for the ball, and pulling to affect the offensive movement.
This new command was issued after several controversial events last season and was supported by feedback from top clubs. These clubs believe that referees are too tolerant of intentional pulling, which is often considered as the "dark art" in football. A strict stance has been communicated to the players who were told to expect to be convicted of fouls. If a penalty is awarded, VAR can still check the decision. If there is a clear misjudgment, it can be recommended that the referee on the field change the decision.
Last season, under the guidance of set piece coach Nicholas Joffre, Arsenal was known for his set piece tactics and execution. In addition, fake falls will also become the target of attack, and in major decisions, referees can adopt the "captain-only" approach and invite the captain to come and explain their ideas. The captain also needs to guide the protesting teammates away from the referee. If the captain is a goalkeeper, a player on the field can be appointed to perform on his behalf.
The goalkeeper will now be given an 8-second "time" to curb time wasting. The timing will only begin if there is no opposing player nearby and the goalkeeper is in a position where he can serve.
The "referee camera" wearing a camera will be tried in the first six to eight rounds of the competition.
In addition, Premier League players will once again kneel in October as part of the football "No Racism" campaign. The Daily Mail Sports Edition learned that the captains of each club have decided that they and their teammates will perform this symbolic move ahead of two rounds of the month, which they believe remains a powerful symbol.