Martin Dubravka: Burnley Goalkeeper Becomes First Victim of New Premier League Rule
- Martin Dubravka became the first player penalised under the Premier League's new eight-second rule for goalkeepers
- Referee Michael Oliver issued a five-second countdown warning after the Burnley No.1 held the ball for three seconds
- The new rule has replaced the rarely enforced six-second rule, which aims to ensure quicker ball distribution
Burnley goalkeeper Martin Dubravka has etched his name in the record books for an unfortunate reason as he becomes the first victim of a new Premier League rule.
Making his debut against Tottenham on Saturday, August 16, the Slovakian was the first goalkeeper penalised under the new eight-second rule.
The new law requires goalkeepers to release the ball within eight seconds, replacing the older six-second rule that carried an indirect free-kick penalty.
Source: Getty Images
As per Sky Sports, Dubravka was cautioned by centre referee Michael Oliver for holding the ball too long during the fixture.
The match official issued a five-second countdown warning after Dubravka had the ball for three seconds.
Consequently, Tottenham were awarded a corner in the fourth minute, although it did not lead to a goal, per talkSPORT.
However, Dubravka couldn’t prevent Richarlison from scoring six minutes later, converting a precise cross from debutant Mohammed Kudus.
New Rules for the 2025/26 Premier League Season
Captain-Only Referee Communication:
According to the new Premier League rules, only team captains may discuss decisions with referees, as other players risk a yellow card for approaching officials.
If the captain is in goal, a designated outfield player can speak on their behalf to prevent delays caused by goalkeepers leaving their penalty area.
Revised Double-Touch Penalty Rules:
If a penalty taker accidentally touches the ball twice and scores, the penalty is retaken.
Intentional double-touching results in an indirect free-kick for the defending team, a change from the prior rule where any double-touch automatically voided the goal, regardless of intent.
Liverpool tipped to defend Premier League title
Meanwhile, according to Opta’s supercomputer, Liverpool are favourites to win the Premier League title for a second consecutive season.
After being the biggest spenders in the summer transfer window, Arne Slot’s side are tipped to edge Arsenal to the title, though the margin is predicted to be far tighter than last season’s comfortable gap
Arsenal, strengthened by major signings, are predicted to secure second place again.
Following a substantial squad overhaul, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City are expected to finish third, with Chelsea taking the last Champions League spot in fourth.
Source: Getty Images
Newcastle and Aston Villa are projected to round out the top six, finishing fifth and sixth, respectively.
Arne Slot pays tribute to Diogo Jota
Legit.ng earlier reported that Liverpool manager Arne Slot has paid a special tribute to the late Diogo Jota after the Reds began the new season with a 4-2 win over Bournemouth.
New signing Hugo Ekitike opened the scoring in the first half before Cody Gakpo doubled the advantage in the second minute of the second half.
Source: Legit.ng
