FIFA has experimented with a series of new football rules at the Under-15 World Cup in a move aimed at increasing young players’ involvement in matches and giving them more opportunities to develop their skills.
The proposed changes, which depart from some of the traditional rules of the game, are designed to ensure that young footballers spend more time on the ball and have greater opportunities to participate in play.
Among the innovations tested is a reduction in the number of players on the pitch, with teams competing in an eight-a-side format instead of the conventional 11-a-side arrangement.
Matches are also played over two 20-minute halves, while teams are allowed to make unlimited substitutions throughout the game.
Other adjustments include replacing traditional throw-ins with kick-ins and introducing a modified offside rule.
Under the new offside arrangement, the restriction only applies beyond specially marked lines positioned 14 metres from the goal line, rather than across the entire attacking half.
FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Arsène Wenger, explained that the experiment was driven by the need to prioritise playing time and individual development at the grassroots level.
He said: “At this age, the most important thing is to play. When you love a sport, you want to know how good you are”
The trials form part of efforts to explore alternative approaches to youth football development, with FIFA seeking ways to create more opportunities for young players to improve their technical abilities through increased involvement in matches.
Although the changes have been tested at the Under-15 level, their possible adoption in wider football competitions remains to be seen.
