Chelsea Women’s head coach Sonia Bompastor has expressed strong criticism of a new regulation requiring players to leave the field for 60 seconds after receiving medical treatment during matches. The rule, introduced this season in the Women’s Super League (WSL), mandates that if play is halted for an outfield player to be treated, the player must then be substituted off the pitch for one minute.

Bompastor voiced her frustration following Chelsea’s 1-1 draw against Aston Villa in the WSL opener last Saturday, where midfielder Sjoeke Nusken was twice compelled to leave the field under the new protocol. The French coach described the rule as problematic and indicated she has instructed her players to avoid going down unless absolutely necessary.

“This needs to be better,” Bompastor said, highlighting the potential adverse consequences of the regulation. She warned that the stipulation could encourage athletes to continue playing despite injuries, which raises concerns over player welfare.

The rule aims to prevent time-wasting and ensure fair play, but coaches like Bompastor argue that its current implementation may inadvertently pressure players to avoid seeking treatment on the field, potentially risking their health. The policy’s impact is now under increased scrutiny as the WSL season progresses.