Current regulations do not penalize physical contests before a set-piece with a penalty or free kick. A source from the International Football Association Board (IFAB) told The Times that this aspect has “become a very serious issue.” The official added that the topic was raised shortly before the organization’s annual meeting in March, but there was insufficient time to examine it in detail.
Discussions about potential adjustments to rules governing player contact before set pieces have intensified following an incident in the 35th round of the English Premier League between London clubs West Ham and Arsenal. Referee Chris Kavanagh, after consulting with the video assistant referee, disallowed a goal scored by West Ham in second-half stoppage time, citing a foul by a West Ham player on Arsenal’s goalkeeper. The decision divided opinion among experts, including former players and referees.