 "A Premier League investigation against Man United's Harry Maguire is possible. Image: Reuters")
Manchester United face the threat of a potential Premier League probe and disciplinary measures after Harry Maguire was caught breaching multi-ball regulations. United defeated Chelsea 2-1 on Saturday as Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro scored a goal. The only goal for Chelsea came from Trevoh Chalobah.
However, a new controversy has emerged as Maguire has been spotted breaching multi-ball regulations in social media clips. Maguire was substituted by Ruben Amorim in the second half, and instead of walking back to the dugout, the defender was asked by referee Peter Bankes to leave the pitch by the nearest exit as Leny Yoro replaced him.
Maguire caught breaking Premier League rule
Maguire made his way to the dugout by walking behind the goal Chelsea were defending in the second half. But during his walk, he also booted away a ball that was placed on a cone behind Chelsea’s goal.
In Premier League matches, two balls are placed on cones behind each goal line, aligned with the penalty area. The players are expected to collect balls from these cones to restart play, as the multi-ball design is implemented to cut down time when the ball goes out of play.
Outfield players should collect the match ball themselves or take a replacement from the cones, rather than receiving it from ball assistants. Only goalkeepers preparing for goal kicks may receive footballs directly from the ball assistants stationed behind each goal.
The system was launched by the English Premier League in 2022-23 “to maintain the flow of matches and reduce delays”.
As per EPL officials, the “adherence to the relevant rules and guidance is of vital importance to maintain consistency and, crucially, to ensure that home clubs do not gain a competitive advantage through their misuse of the system.”
The multi-ball regulation also states that: “Participants (including but not limited to players, substitutes, occupants of the Technical Area or any other club personnel) must not interfere with the multi-ball system, the match ball or the replacement balls at any time.”
“Any failure to follow the multi-ball protocol will be referred to the Premier League for further investigation and possible regulatory action under the Premier League rules.”
This has raised concerns that the Premier League could launch a probe against Man United after social media clips showed Maguire flirting with the multi-ball regulations. However, even if a probe is undertaken, no major sanctions are expected. Maguire, though, may get a strict warning against repeating the offence.