Premier League mistake?

Though I do believe the extra substitutions will help a team with a stronger bench, when it is two equally strong sides, I can only see the benefits. The intensity level can be maintained for a full 90 minutes. The coach has the ability to impact the game more, applying different strategies that should actually lead to more exciting football. He can now push a player to give it for 45-60 mins, knowing he’ll avoid burnout as he’s going to be subbed.

History proves that fans are reluctant to accept change. Even VAR was feared as being a potential game destroyer. Now it is unanimously applauded. With five substitutions, it’s hard to argue against it contributing to a more entertaining sport. In the past, there had been calls for games to be shortened to 80 minutes, for this same reason. I’d lean towards the extra substitutions being a better option.

Finally, and most importantly, it should be noted that while the rest of Europe goes forward with five substitutions, an advantage is being forfeited to them by the Premier League. Who is more likely to behave the stronger fitness come May time? Not only is the rest of Europe playing in a less intense league and even in some cases a smaller division (18 teams in Bundesliga), they will be better rested. This will impact the National Team too, with almost all the squad currently playing in England. With this in mind, I think it’s only a matter of time before the league decides to go with the rest of Europe on this decision.