The possible introduction of blue cards into football has caused plenty of discussion over the past few days.
The game’s lawmakers IFAB were set to announce a trial in the lower leagues today, although reports have suggested the backlash has prompted a rethink.
A blue card would be received if a player shows dissent to a match official or commits a cynical foul. He, or she, would then be sent to the sin-bin for 10 minutes.
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Here’s what the Premier League managers said regarding the potential rule change.
Spoiler: They aren’t impressed…
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp: “It doesn’t sound like a fantastic idea in the first moment, but actually, I can’t remember when the last fantastic idea came from these guys, if they ever had one.”
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola: “It is not something official, so when they give the final decision and explain the rules for everyone to understand, I will give my opinion. For now it is just an idea.”
Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta: “We’ve got a lot going on now with decisions, with technology, I don’t know if we’re ready for that yet! Hopefully it’s going to be tested very, very well before it’s introduced at this level.”
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe: “I’m not a big fan to be honest, that’s what yellow cards are for. The system works but just needs to be refined. Blue cards would just add confusion so I’m against it.”
“I don’t think it’s a good idea…” 🤔
Mauricio Pochettino says he is not sure about the idea of blue cards in football 🟦 PIC.TWITTER.COM/IE1UFREHUM
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) FEBRUARY 9, 2024
Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino: “I think it is going to create more divides, make it more complicated for referees, the players and the fans. My feeling now is that it’s not a good idea, but we’ll see what happens.
“Give it an opportunity to see how it works and after, we can have a better idea about how they want to apply it during the games, but my first feeling is that it’s complicated to add another colour, another card to the game. It’s too many question marks.”
Luton manager Rob Edwards: “No. We’re a long way off it coming into our game at the moment.”
Aston Villa’s Unai Emery: “I don’t care about it a lot, I think the referees and those making the decision have to analyse it deeply, but it is not my concern.”
