Under current rules, physical contact with opponents before corner kicks and free kicks is not considered a foul until the ball is in play, leading many players to grab and hold each other during these moments.
Some high-ranking officials now believe this type of grappling has spiraled out of control. The issue gained widespread attention following a controversial incident in the 36th round of the Premier League, where West Ham had a goal disallowed against Arsenal (0-1). In that sequence, several players from both sides were seen wrestling and holding their opponents before the ball was delivered.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) is expected to examine the matter during the upcoming season.
“We will review this over the course of next season because it has become a very serious problem. The topic was raised before our last annual general meeting in March, but it was too late to examine it in detail. So we will do that now,” a source from IFAB told The Times.
ESPN has confirmed the report and added that discussions could begin as early as autumn.
