Managers voiced their reservations regarding the potential implementation of blue cards during discussions on Friday, showing a lack of enthusiasm for the proposed change.
Recall that the International Football Association Board ihas proposed to incorporate the Blue Card into the sport.
Officials will reportedly carry blue cards, which, when shown to offending players, will result in 10 minutes in the sin bin.
Offences such as dissent and cynical fouls are said to be among the criteria for players being sent to the sin bin.
Approval for the trials is expected to be sought at IFAB’s annual meeting in March.
The organization has been exploring methods to enhance player conduct on the field, while also aiming to address incidents that fall short of warranting a red card but surpass the threshold for a yellow card.
Jurgen Klopp expressed his doubts on the introduction of the new rule, stating, “Introducing a new card would only add more complexity because then the debate would revolve around, ‘should it have been a blue card or a yellow card?’ It doesn’t seem like a great idea, but I can’t recall the last great idea from these authorities, if there ever was one.”
Chelsea’s manager, Mauricio Pochettino echoed Klopp’s sentiments, expressing concern: “I believe it will lead to more confusion among referees, players, and fans. At the moment, I don’t think it’s a wise idea, but we’ll wait and see how it unfolds.”
Similarly Spurs coach, Ange Postecoglou questioned the necessity of blue cards, stating, “I fail to grasp the sudden urgency to introduce new elements. I don’t see much wrong with the game as it is. I don’t see how a different-colored card will make a difference.”
Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta emphasized the importance of thorough testing before implementing blue cards at the elite level: “We’re currently dealing with various decisions and technologies. I’m unsure if we’re prepared for this yet. It needs to undergo rigorous testing before being introduced.”
Brendan Rodgers injected humor into the discussion, quipping about potential complications in Scotland: “As soon as I heard about it, I thought, ‘I work in Scotland, so they better introduce a green card alongside the blue one, or we might face issues.’ Let’s keep it simple. We don’t need a blue card up here, that’s for certain.”
Should the blue card be implemented, it would mark the first alteration to on-field disciplinary measures since the introduction of red and yellow cards during the 1970 World Cup.
