‘Dangerous’ and ‘damaging’: Manchester United star speaks out on new FA rulings

The Red Devil had plenty to say on the matter

August 07, 2023 at 10:35 am GMT+1

Manchester United star Raphael Varane has warned that the new rules planned for the Premier League will be ‘damaging’ and could be ‘dangerous’ for the players after it was seen in action over the first weekend of the EFL.

Several new initiatives, including added extra time for timewasting and yellow cards for dissent, were trialed as the lower leagues of English football kicked off again over the weekend, with some teams seeing as much as 12 minutes of added time.

Despite the idea that it should help see more football for fans, and increase interest in the game, it has received some backlash, with thoughts that it could make transportation more difficult for match-going fans.

DOHA, QATAR - DECEMBER 14: Player of France Raphael Varane warms up before the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Semi-finals match between France and Morocco at Al Bayt Stadium on December 14, 2022 in Al Khor, Qatar. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/PxImages) Credit: 2M3D50A DOHA, QATAR - DECEMBER 14: Player of France Raphael Varane warms up before the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Semi-finals match between France and Morocco at Al Bayt Stadium on December 14, 2022 in Al Khor, Qatar. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/PxImages) Credit: Px Images/Alamy Live News (Alamy Stock Photo)

Now, Varane has come out as the first Premier League player openly against the new rules, warning that it will cause added fatigue and less passion in top-flight matches.

“We had a meeting last week with the FA. They recommended from the referees new decisions and rules”, the World Cup winner tweeted.

“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 per cent 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.”