The Premier League could soon undergo another major rule change. Discussions are underway to allow six substitutes per game and expand squad size to 28 players. The move is being actively explored by top clubs across Europe to address player fatigue and fixture congestion. The proposals gained momentum during the European Football Clubs (EFC) general assembly in Rome last week.<\/p>
Notably, the conference was first since the body was rebranded from the European Club Association. The EFC now represents 820 clubs from 55 UEFA nations, with 17 of the 20 Premier League sides, including Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United among its members. The discussions were driven by growing concerns over the relentless schedule faced by modern footballers. <\/p>
With an ever-expanding calendar of domestic, European and international fixtures, clubs are searching for ways to protect players from burnout. The introduction of six substitutes is being considered a realistic next step after the successful adoption of the five-substitute rule after the COVID-19 pandemic.<\/p>