FIFA are preparing to introduce several major rule changes ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The governing body, alongside IFAB, wants stricter control over multiple situations that caused controversy across club and international football last season.
Set pieces have become one of the biggest discussion points in modern football, especially in the Premier League.
Physical battles inside the penalty area are now far more common during corners and free kicks. That approach proved particularly effective for several teams during the campaign.
However, FIFA now believe some tactics are going too far. Officials are specifically targeting situations where players deliberately obstruct defenders before the ball is delivered into the box.
The idea comes from basketball-style screening and blocking movements. The changes will officially come into force in July and will also apply during the World Cup.
According to the Daily Mail, FIFA’s new “anti-Arsenal law” will punish players for blocking or preventing opponents from challenging for the ball during corners and free kicks.
Referees can reportedly penalise players even before teams take the set piece. Officials reportedly used England’s friendly against Uruguay in March as a case study during discussions surrounding the rule.
Ben White scored during that game after Adam Wharton and Harvey Barnes appeared to block defenders inside the area. Under the new rule, the goal would have been disallowed.
The rule could significantly affect Premier League teams next season, particularly Arsenal after their success from set pieces during the campaign.
The Gunners scored 25 Premier League goals from set-piece situations last season using an extremely physical approach inside the penalty area.
Meanwhile, FIFA are also introducing several other rule changes before the World Cup begins on June 11.
FIFA also confirmed that teams can no longer hold tactical discussions with coaches while goalkeepers receive treatment during matches.
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