28 Jul 2026 16:56:41
Eds and fellow posters, what do you make of Varane's call for heading to be better regulated and banned for certain young ages?
{Ed001's Note - I thought that had already been done?}
28 Jul 2026 17:37:00
I could be wrong, but I think the heading policy is only in England, currently set out by the English FA. I believe Varane is talking more within the academy set up for his proposal. He talks a bit more about it being controlled and learnt, as it is a skill rather than banned. This is my understanding of it.
28 Jul 2026 17:52:30
His rule at Como:
Under-10: Heading is completely banned in training and matches; corners and throw-ins must stay on the ground.
Under-11: Heading remains banned during matches, introduced only near the end of the season, using soft rubber balls.
Under-12: Capped at one heading session per month, with a maximum of five headers.
Under-13: Restricted to training once a week (max five headers), while match heading stays prohibited.
28 Jul 2026 21:10:30
Arsenal must be nervous about this.