Goalkeepers will be able to hold on to the ball for eight seconds instead of six from next season after the game’s lawmakers approved a significant change. Currently goalkeepers are supposed to be sanctioned with an indirect free-kick if they hold on for more than six seconds, but the offence is rarely penalised. A trial allowing keepers to hold on for eight seconds has been active in a number of competitions this season, including Premier League 2. The referee counts down the final five seconds on their hand and under the law change a corner will be awarded if they exceed the limit instead of an indirect free-kick. The International Football Association Board, which sets the game’s laws, was known to have been impressed by the trials and has now agreed to bring it into law for 2025-26. The IFAB has also agreed to continue offside trials designed to foster attacking football.