Wenger Advocates for Modification of Offside Rule

Arsène Wenger has advocated for a revision of the offside rule in football, suggesting that a player should be considered onside if any part of their body is in line with the last outfield defender. The former Arsenal manager argues that this change would eliminate marginal offside decisions and increase the number of goals scored in matches. In an interview with beIN Sports, Wenger recalled that following the 1990 World Cup in Italy, a similar rule adjustment allowed players to be onside when aligned with the defender, benefiting strikers in cases of doubt. He stated, “With VAR, that advantage has diminished, causing frustration for many fans. Therefore, I propose that any part of your body in line with the defender means you are onside. We are currently testing this idea, and a final decision will be made by the IFAB in the coming year, not by me.”

Wenger’s proposal has sparked considerable debate, and trials have been conducted. Recently, FIFA President Gianni Infantino hinted at the possibility of the plan receiving approval. However, it appears that the British Football Associations and UEFA hold opposing views, considering the changes to be “too drastic” and potentially disruptive to the sport. According to The Times, a possible compromise is being suggested, which would classify a player as offside if any part of their torso is ahead of the defender, while their feet, legs, and head would not be factored into the decision. This perspective differs from Wenger’s approach, which favors the attacker unless there is clear space between them and the defender.

Concerns have been raised regarding the potential for radical changes to the game. A source warned The Times, “Is anyone arguing that there are not enough goals in football? We must exercise caution to avoid compromising the integrity of the game. The existing limited trials of the daylight rule have not provided substantial data.”

Furthermore, there have been calls for additional testing of Wenger’s Law before any discussions on its implementation continue. CONCACAF President and FIFA Vice-President Victor Montagliani expressed to The Times, “Only one test has been conducted, and the results were not optimal. If we wish to amend the offside rule, it needs thorough testing, as it could considerably influence game tactics. Will teams retreat defensively due to the inability to play a high line? Or will it result in more goals? Perhaps I am traditionalist, yet we should be cautious about allowing a striker to score six goals in the Manchester derby when previously three-quarters of their body would have been ruled offside. A comprehensive analysis is necessary before finalizing a decision.”

FIFA intends to seek approval for new trials of the Wenger Law from the IFAB next month. However, as it stands, British FAs and UEFA appear poised to oppose the proposals, which may hinder progression. For any proposal to pass, six votes are required, with FIFA currently holding four votes and each British FA having one.