Raphael Varane has concerns over new Premier League rules after FA meeting

07 August 2023 , 09:47

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Raphael Varane has concerns over new Premier League rules after FA meeting

Manchester United defender Raphael Varane hasn't held back with his views on the new regulations that are set to impact the Premier League and EFL this season.

New laws designed to curtail time wasting will mean prolonged matches this season, with the notion already evident in Sunday's Community Shield clash between Arsenal and Manchester City. The equaliser for the Gunners, who eventually won on penalties, came after the 100-minute mark, leaving City boss Pep Guardiola seething.

The extended match durations were also evident in the EFL on the weekend, but rather than fans and pundits lauding the prospect of not being denied ball-in-play time, instead fears have been widely expressed over player welfare. And now French international Varane has hit out, arguing that players met with the FA last week only to have their "concerns" ignored.

"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," he tweeted. "Despite our previous feedbacks, they have now recommended for next season: longer games, more intensity, and less emotions to be shown by players."

And the United centre back also warned that the top stars may not be at their best with 100-minute matches already adding to an already gruelling schedule. "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?" he asked.

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"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."

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Raphael Varane has hit out on the new regulations

Rio Ferdinand has responded to Varane's complaints, arguing the key lies to finding a compromise between entertaining fans and looking after player welfare. And the former United and England man said all parties needed to be involved in discussions.

"We need to find a balance 100%," said the BT Sport pundit on Twitter. "Players and managers alongside the authorities planning and implementing for the betterment of the game. Finding a solution where all parties (including the fans) are happy must be the aim."

The issue of an overcrowded schedule will be exacerbated further for the top clubs next season, with a new expanded Champions League format being introduced. A 32-team Club World Cup is also due to take place in 2025, with those involved travelling to America to compete.

Fraser Watson