MLS will have two extra changes in case of concussion

Major League Soccer teams will have two extra substitutions starting next season, in case a footballer suffers from a concussion., this after the U.S. Soccer announced that it will be part of the FIFA pilot program to prevent players from returning to the field in case of suffering a severe blow to the head.

Through a statement, the MLS, as well as the U.S. Soccer announced that they would join the pilot test previously approved by FIFA and by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which It will be in force until August 2022, so that the teams can make a couple of extra modifications in case of concussion.

“As of 2021, Major League Soccer teams may make up to two concussion substitutes during a game to replace players who suffer a concussionl or a suspected concussion, regardless of the number of substitutions that have already been used, ”the statement read.

The MLS will be, along with NWSL, USL and NISA, one of the first leagues to approve extra substitutions in case of concussion, after this protocol was tested in the last Club World Cup and during the last edition of the SheBelieves Cup, held last February in Orlando, Florida.

“Adoption of this new rule is an important step as we continue to lead the way in player safety. It was essential to unite as a sport with our professional leagues and proceed in this pilot program, prioritizing the well-being of our players above all else.”Said Dr. George Chiampas, medical director of the U.S. Soccer.

In case a team requires the extra switch due to concussion, the opposing team will receive the possibility of submitting an extra substitution at five o'clock those that are already available and that will be in force during the meetings of the MLS 2021 season, while staff from each club will be in charge of designating the exchange rate used in the event of a commotion.

MLS will be a pioneer worldwide

Major League Soccer Will Be First League To Implement Concussion Protocol, which will allow a couple of extra modifications to be made during the meetings of the 2021 season, in which each team will have the five changes in three windows, as has happened since the modification of the rule due to the coronavirus pandemic. If a team makes use of the extra substitution, the opposing team will receive one more substitution, just in case they have already made their five normal substitutions and in the event that a second substitution is made due to concussion, the rival may also substitute one more player.