This archive report was first published on 4 June 2020.
On June 4, 2020, Premier League clubs made a crucial decision to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the 2019/20 season. The clubs agreed to a temporary rule change, allowing managers to make up to five substitutions for the remainder of the season.
This decision was made at a meeting on Thursday, where Fifa's proposed solution was accepted to 'protect player welfare.' The solution aimed to address the packed schedule of matches, which was a result of the three-month layoff due to the pandemic.
As part of the agreement, the number of substitutes available for selection was increased from seven to nine for the remainder of the season. This change was made to ensure player safety and well-being during the intense period of matches.
However, to avoid too many stoppages, each team will still only have three opportunities to make changes, including at half-time.
The Premier League is set to resume on June 17, with two matches: Manchester City hosting Arsenal and Sheffield United traveling to Aston Villa. The remaining nine full rounds of fixtures are expected to be completed in just five weeks.
