MU may face penalties due to Harry Maguire

MU is at risk of being investigated and penalized by the Premier League following footage showing defender Harry Maguire violating the multi-ball regulation in the 2-1 win against Chelsea.

Manchester United secured a 2-1 win against Chelsea last weekend, with goals from Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro. However, the joy of the three points was quickly overshadowed by a controversial incident involving defender Harry Maguire.

According to clips circulating on social media, Maguire breached the Premier League’s multi-ball system rules. Specifically, after being substituted in the second half, the English defender was instructed by the referee to leave the pitch via the nearest exit rather than walking to the tunnel. On his way around behind Chelsea’s goal, Maguire unexpectedly kicked away a ball placed on a plastic cone, which served as a spare ball for the match.

The Premier League regulation, effective from the 2022/23 season, requires that two balls be fixed on poles behind each goal, aligned with the penalty area. Players must retrieve balls from these positions or pick up balls in play to continue the game. Only goalkeepers are allowed to receive balls from ball boys when preparing to restart play. This rule aims to maintain the match’s pace, minimize time-wasting, and prevent home teams from deliberately delaying the game.

The league organizers have explicitly stated: “No individual, including players, coaches, or team staff, is permitted to interfere with the multi-ball system. Any violations will be reported and may result in disciplinary actions.”

Therefore, Maguire’s behavior is considered a breach of the rules. Although no official action has been announced yet, multiple sources suggest the Premier League may launch an investigation. However, the likelihood of MU receiving a severe punishment is very low. In the worst case, Maguire might receive a warning or a strict reprimand to prevent recurrence.

This incident once again places Manchester United under unwanted scrutiny, especially after their important victory over Chelsea. Fans hope the off-field issues will soon be resolved so that coach Ruben Amorim and his team can focus on the challenging Premier League campaign ahead.