FIFA Rush to Introduce 'Anti-Arsenal Law' for the World Cup in Latest Set of Rule Changes—England Singled Out
A new World Cup regulation, already being labelled the “anti-Arsenal law,” is set to reshape how set pieces are played, with FIFA and IFAB introducing stricter enforcement against blocking during corners and free kicks.
World Cup set-piece rule change bans blocking at corners, impacting Premier League tactics and Arsenal’s style.
The updated rule focuses on eliminating pushing, shoving, and obstructive movement that prevents defenders from challenging for the ball. It specifically targets situations where attacking players act as blockers before the ball is delivered, a practice increasingly common in modern set-piece routines.
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Under the new interpretation, players can now be penalised even before the ball is kicked if they are found obstructing an opponent’s movement. The rule has been inspired by concepts seen in basketball, where screening opponents is tightly regulated.
The change will be implemented at the upcoming World Cup and rolled out across all major leagues from July.
A key example used in discussions around the rule is England’s friendly match against Uruguay in March. The goal scored by Ben White was analysed, with instances showing players such as Adam Wharton and Harvey Barnes involved in blocking defenders during the corner routine. Under the new law, that goal may have been disallowed.
The rule is expected to significantly affect Premier League teams, particularly those that rely heavily on set-piece routines. Arsenal have been frequently highlighted due to their physical approach, having scored 25 set-piece goals in the Premier League this season.
This crackdown forms part of a wider set of new regulations being introduced for the World Cup, which begins on June 11.
