Pochettino, Arteta and Postecoglou agree on new offside system for the premier league
The Premier League’s decision to bring in a new semi-automated offside system has been given the nod of approval from Mikel Arteta, Mauricio Pochettino and Ange Postecoglou ahead of its introduction during the 2024/25 season.
The matter was discussed and passed through at the latest Premier League shareholders’ meeting last week. During the sit-down, clubs unanimously agreed to the change. The measure, which follows ongoing VAR controversy – when it comes to delays over decisions and getting borderline calls right – will not be ready for the big kick-off at the start of next season, however.
Instead, the technology is expected to be brought in after one of the autumn international breaks. It means clubs might have to wait until September or November for the revamp to be implemented.
Semi-automated offside technology was used during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and is already in operation for UEFA Champions League matches. As well as providing greater accuracy with decision-making, there should be significant improvements with speed, too, to appease players, managers, supporters and broadcasters.
And it’s something that all three managers of Arsenal, Chelsea and Spurs were clear on when asked about the decision in their latest round of press conferences.
“Yes, if it’s unanimous that means it’s going to be better,” Arteta said on Friday afternoon. “It’s going to be faster and more efficient. Hopefully it’s going to be better for us.”
Pochettino and Postecoglou were likewise positive on the move, with all managers hoping for an increase in efficiency as well as accuracy. “Yeah, I don’t know a lot about it but if it means they make decisions quicker and clearer, I’m all for it,” Postecoglou stated.
“We were talking with Adrian [press officer] and Jesus [Perez, assistant], if it is right, [then it is] perfect,” Pochettino said. “I will be happy. We will see if it works.
“We need to be positive about the decision. If the system is right, then for sure we will be very happy.”
