Man Utd star issues statement on "damaging" rule after Pep Guardiola speaks out on changes

Manchester United star Raphael Varane has expressed his concern about the “damaging” new rules around stoppage time. 

Arsenal won the Community Shield on penalties against Manchester City on Sunday after taking the game to penalties with an equaliser in the 101st minute of the game. Pep Guardiola saw the initial eight minutes stretched to 13 after a clash of heads between Kyle Walker and Thomas Partey.

The new law on timewasting and keeping the ball in play means there were extended periods of stoppage time across the opening weekend of the new campaign - with EFL managers also expressing their concern.  Varane made his feelings clear in a statement released on social media on Monday morning. 

“We had a meeting last week with the FA,” the defender said. “They recommended from the referees new decisions and rules. 

“From the managers and players, we have shared our concerns for many years now that there are too many games, the schedule is overcrowded, and it’s at a dangerous level for players' physical and mental well-being. 

“Despite our previous feedback, they have now recommended for next season: longer games, more intensity, and less emotions to be shown by players. We just want to be in good condition on the pitch to give 100% to our club and fans. Why are our opinions not being heard? 

“As a player I feel very privileged to do the job I love every day but I feel these changes are damaging our game. We want to be at our maximum level, the best we can be and put on amazing performances for fans to celebrate every week. I believe it is important that we, players and managers, highlight these important issues as we want to protect the game we love and give the fans our best.”

Guardiola attempted to keep his feelings on the matter in check after the Wembley defeat to their title rivals last season.

“We have to get used to it,” he said. “I had the feeling, not because we were winning 1-0, but that not much happened to extend it for eight minutes.

“It’s a good question for the international board and people because they don’t consult with managers and players and we have to accept it with this amount of games. Now the games will be 100 minutes. Nothing happened today and there was eight minutes. They extend for goals. If the score is 4-3, you put 45 seconds on for seven goals, tomorrow morning I am (still) here playing.”