FIFA has put on the table a proposal that could transform professional soccer on a global level, as the governing body analyzes the implementation of a mandatory rule that would require all clubs to keep at least one young player trained in their own youth teams on the field during matches.
The initiative was recently discussed by the FIFA Council, which agreed to work on a formal plan within approximately one year, following consultations with leagues, clubs and other stakeholders in the sport.
A rule that boosts young talent
The main objective of this measure (FIFA’s juvenile rule) is clear:
Increase opportunities for young players, especially those developed within club academies.
Currently, many teams rely heavily on international signings, which limits the growth of local talent.
FIFA proposes that first division teams be obliged to field a home-trained U-20 or U-21 player at all times.
If approved, this rule would be stricter than current regulations in competitions such as the UEFA Champions League.
Where only locally trained players are required to be included in the squads, but not necessarily in the starting lineup.
A family model for Mexican soccer
For Mexican fans – especially those who follow Liga MX from the United States – this idea is not new.
Mexican soccer has at different times implemented rules to encourage youth development.
A clear example was Rule 20/11, which forced clubs to give minutes to players under a certain age or face sporting sanctions.
Currently, Mexican regulations require accumulating 1,170 minutes with young players born in 2003 or later.
With per-match limits and additional benefits if the players are nationally selected.
Since the Apertura 2025 tournament, the system has been adjusted to count total minutes without applying age percentages.
This seeks to further incentivize youth participation (Filed under: FIFA underage rule would change soccer).
Key changes on the road to the 2026 World Cup
It was agreed to work on a formal plan
QuéOnnda.com
In addition to this possible new underage rule, FIFA has already confirmed important modifications to the disciplinary regulations for the 2026 World Cup, which will be played in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
The most relevant change is related to yellow cards.
In the new format – which will have 48 teams – disciplinary records will be expunged at two points during the tournament:
After the group stage and again after the quarterfinals.
This measure is intended to prevent key players from missing crucial matches.
Especially in instances such as the semifinals or the final, due to the accumulation of cards (Filed as: FIFA underage rule would change soccer).
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
