New football rule change announced that will impact Arsenal star David Raya next season

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Football’s lawmakers have announced another rule change that looks set to come into effect in the 2025/26 season.

Goalkeepers will be impacted particularly, with Arsenal star David Raya having to take note of that heading into the new campaign.

The Spaniard has been the number-one choice between the posts since last season, taking on the responsibility from Aaron Ramsdale.

Raya has been impressive when called upon, capable of making some big saves while his passing has allowed the Gunners to pass out from the back effectively.

He will have to be careful next year when it comes to one rule change that will impact his role.

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New goalkeeper rule change set to impact Arsenal

Ahead of the 2025/26 season, football lawmakers IFAB have sat down to make amendments to the current state of the game.

Involved in a recent statement is a change to rules on goalkeeper time wasting, specifically with how long they can hold onto a ball and the punishment for doing so.

The current rules mean that an indirect free-kick is awarded for holding the ball too long, but a switch will mean that it results in a corner kick instead.

How long can a goalkeeper keep hold of the ball?

There have been different timings regarding how long a goalkeeper can hold the ball for, but as of the 2025/26 season, they will only be able to keep hold of it for eight seconds.

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Arsenal must be careful with new referee rule change

Arsenal know exactly what it’s like to be on the end of new rule changes in the Premier League this season after some controversial decisions.

The new rule surrounding bookings for delaying the restart has seen the Gunners receive the first two, and so far only, red cards for doing so.

While it has been contentious, the rule changes were coming and something that the side should take note of going forward.

In a similar fashion, making sure that Raya doesn’t overstep the mark by holding onto the ball for too long should be taken on board before it costs the side dearly from a needless set-piece being given away.