Premier League set for 'major' VAR rule change that will impact Arsenal, Chelsea and Spurs

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The 2025/26 Premier League season kicks-off this evening when holders Liverpool welcome AFC Bournemouth to Anfield. But this year, there are a number of rule changes.

Over two months since the last campaign came to an end, fans up and down the country will begin following their team religiously. Arsenal take on Manchester United on Sunday afternoon with Chelsea and Tottenham both in action on Saturday against Crystal Palace and Burnley respectively.

As is the case most seasons, English football has a number of new rules. The Football Association have listed the key law changes that have been implemented throughout the pyramid and they will impact the Premier League.

Perhaps the most important one is in regards to Video assistant referee (VAR). The protocol around VAR has been changed with the FA saying: "Competitions have the option for the referee to make an announcement after a VAR 'review' or lengthy VAR 'check'.'

Other rules have been updated, also. Under 'Law 3 - The Players', 'competitions have the option of implementing the ‘Only the captain’ guidelines'. 'Law 5 - The Referee' states the change in how long a goalkeeper can hand on to the ball.

The rule reads: 'signal to be used by referees to count down the last five seconds of the eight-second restriction on goalkeepers controlling the ball with their hand(s)/arm(s)'.

For Offsides, the update regulation reads: 'when the goalkeeper throws the ball, the last point of contact should be used for the purpose of determining an offside position'. There is also an update for fouls and misconduct when 'a goalkeeper who controls the ball with their hand(s)/arm(s) for more than eight seconds will be penalised, with a corner kick being awarded to the other team'.

Sky Sports are also providing different coverage throughout the Premier League season. Including their new Multiview and theme tune, a new show called 'Extra Time' will see Jamie Carragher giving his instant reaction to games on Sundays where four or more matches are on.

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