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Raphael Varane hits out at ‘damaging’ injury time rule changes.
Manchester United centre-back Raphael Varane has spoken out against English football’s governing body for making changes to the rules regarding injury time.
The 2022 World Cup’s stoppage-time protocol, which accounts for every second lost for substitutions, set-piece setup, goal celebrations, and other activities, will be implemented in the Premier League.
As was seen in Sunday’s Community Shield match between Arsenal and Manchester City, where Leandro Trossard’s goal in the 101st minute of play forced penalties, it results in considerable increases in additional time at the end of each half.
Varane has criticized the additional playing time, arguing that players already log too many minutes every game.
“We had a meeting last week with the FA. They recommended from the referees new decisions and rules,” the Man Utd defender explained on Twitter.
“From the managers and players, we have shared our concerns for many years now that there are too many games, the schedule is overcrowded, and it’s at a dangerous level for players physical and mental well-being.
“Despite our previous feedbacks, they have now recommended for next season: longer games, more intensity, and less emotions to be shown by players. We just want to be in good condition on the pitch to give 100% to our club and fans. Why are our opinions not being heard?
“As a player I feel very privileged to do the job I love every day but I feel these changes are damaging our game. We want to be at our maximum level, the best we can be and put on amazing performances for fans to celebrate every week.
“I believe it is important that we, players and managers, highlight these important issues as we want to protect the game we love and give the fans our best.”
We had a meeting last week with the FA. They recommended from the referees new decisions and rules.
From the managers and players, we have shared our concerns for many years now that there are too many games, the schedule is overcrowded, and it’s at a dangerous level for…
— Raphaël Varane (@raphaelvarane) August 7, 2023