Manchester United centre-back Raphael Varane has opened his voice regarding the new Premier League regulations regarding playing minutes. Varane said the new rules were unfair to footballers.
The English Football Federation (FA) is testing new rules to maximise minutes played in football. Reportedly, this rule would make football matches no less than 100 minutes long.
The effectiveness of playing time will be maximised in the additional time that will be given in a match. This rule is reflected in the 2022 World Cup. Trials of this regulation have been seen in several Premier League second division matches, and the Community Shield final.
Regarding this new rule, Varane doesn’t seem to agree given the busy schedule that footballers will have, especially in the Premier League. However, the protest submitted by Varane was flatly rejected by the FA.
“We had a meeting last week with the FA. They recommend new decisions and rules from the referee. From managers and players, we have shared our concern for many years now that there are too many matches, the schedule is too tight and it is at a dangerous level for the physical and mental health of the players,” Varane said on his personal Twitter account (@raphaelvarane) , Monday (7/8/2023).
“Despite our previous feedback, they now recommend for next season: longer games, more intensity and less emotion shown by players.”
“We just want to be in good shape on the pitch to give 100 per cent to our club and our fans. Why isn’t our opinion being heard?,” added Varane. Furthermore, Varane believes that changing the rules could damage the game in a match. On the other hand, the player with the French passport emphasised that he still tries to give his best in every match.
“As a player, I feel very honoured to do the job I love every day, but I feel this change is hurting our game. We want to be at our maximum level, the best we can and put in a great performance for the fans to celebrate every week. I believe it is important for us,” he said.
