Semi-automated offside technology is expected to be introduced in the Premier League in October, but there will be some rule changes in action from this weekend.

Gabriel Jesus' pass to Leandro Trossard is eventually ruled onside following a VAR check (Image via Arsenal.com)
Gabriel Jesus’ pass to Leandro Trossard is eventually ruled onside following a VAR check (Image via Arsenal.com)

Semi-automated offsides will be in place in the Premier League this season, but not from the opening day.

Initial reports suggested the technology would be introduced after one of the autumn international breaks, in either September, October, or November. Premier League CFO Tony Scholes has now said that the expectation is for October.

Scholes added: “We’re going to bring it in when we’re absolutely certain that it will work properly and improve things. We’ll be testing it through the first match rounds of the year, it will be working in the background.

“We’re bringing in a new system, a different system which is more accurate than the system which is in use in other competitions.”

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND: Referee Stuart Attwell checks the VAR screen for a red card for Mason Holgate of Sheffield United (not pictured), which was later given during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Brighton & Hove Albion at Bramall Lane on February 18, 2024. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND: Referee Stuart Attwell checks the VAR screen for a red card for Mason Holgate of Sheffield United (not pictured), which was later given during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Brighton & Hove Albion at Bramall Lane on February 18, 2024. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

In other VAR changes, it’s expected that a higher bar will be used for VAR intervention this season, with video officials not expected to intervene on referee judgement calls.

Replays will also be shown in the stadium on the big screens on a more regular basis but the possibility of in-stadium announcements from referees for VAR decisions is on hold for the time being.

arsenal fc v tottenham hotspur premier league 4
LONDON, ENGLAND: Referee Robert Jones checks the VAR screen for a handball by Cristian Romero of Tottenham Hotspur (not pictured) during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on September 24, 2023. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Arsenal have highlighted a few more rule changes for this season, including that players won’t automatically receive a yellow card for conceding a penalty for handball, and that five subs can warm up at once.

Team lineups will be announced 75 minutes before kick-off rather than 60, and ballboys will be able to return the ball to goalkeepers for goal kicks (as opposed to placing the ball on the cones around the pitch like usual).