Neymar becomes first player forced off under Brazil’s new anti-time-wasting rule

Santos captain Neymar became the first player in Brazil’s Serie A to be temporarily forced off the pitch under a new rule designed to prevent goalkeepers from wasting time through medical stoppages.

The rule is currently being trialled in Brazil’s top flight and is also set to be introduced in other competitions, including the Premier League.

Under the new regulation, if play is stopped because a goalkeeper receives medical treatment, the coach must immediately nominate an outfield player to leave the pitch for one minute after the match resumes.

If the coach does not nominate a player within 10 seconds, the team captain is automatically required to leave the field for the one-minute period.

The rule was used for the first time in Brazil’s top flight during Santos’ 3-0 victory over Vasco on Sunday, after goalkeeper Gabriel Brazao requested medical attention.

With the Santos coaching staff failing to nominate an outfield player within the allotted 10 seconds, the referee instructed captain Neymar to leave the pitch.

Neymar, 34, therefore became the first player in Brazil’s Serie A to be penalised under the new anti-time-wasting measure.

The trial is part of wider efforts to tackle deliberate delays and keep matches flowing, particularly when goalkeepers require treatment during games.

Neymar remains an important figure for Santos, having returned to the club where he began his professional career.

The veteran forward also featured for Brazil at this year’s World Cup, making two substitute appearances. He scored a late penalty in Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the round of 16.

With the new rule expected to be tested in more major competitions, Neymar’s unusual experience could prove an early indication of how the measure will affect matches in the future.