Man Utd could face Premier League investigation as Harry Maguire breaking rule caught on video

Manchester United could face a Premier League probe and potential disciplinary measures following their 2-1 triumph over Chelsea. United picked up a crucial win thanks to first-half goals from Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, but Harry Maguire may have landed the club in hot water.

Social media clips have emerged showing Maguire breaching multi-ball regulations after being hauled off in the second half by Ruben Amorim. Rather than trudging across the pitch when substituted for Leny Yoro, referee Peter Bankes directed him to exit via the nearest route.

Maguire's path took him behind the goal Chelsea were defending during the second period. Whilst making his way around, he technically violated Premier League regulations by mischievously booting a ball away from one of the cones as it rolled toward the stands, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Two spare balls sit atop cones positioned behind each goal line, aligned with the penalty area. Players must collect them from these designated spots to resume play, with multi-ball designed to cut down match disruptions when the ball leaves the field.

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The Premier League confirms the system, launched in the 2022/23 campaign, "intends to maintain the flow of matches and reduce delays". Officials stress that "adherence to the relevant rules and guidance is of vital importance to maintain consistency and, crucially, to ensure that home clubs do not gain a competitive advantage through their misuse of the system."

Outfield players must either fetch the match ball personally or grab a replacement from the cones instead of accepting them from ball assistants. Ball assistants positioned behind each goal are permitted to provide footballs exclusively to goalkeepers preparing to take goal kicks.

The multi-ball system regulations specify: "Participants (including but not limited to players, substitutes, occupants of the Technical Area or any other club personnel) must not interfere with the multi-ball system, the match ball or the replacement balls at any time."

The rules further state: "Any failure to follow the multi-ball protocol will be referred to the Premier League for further investigation and possible regulatory action under the Premier League rules."

Whilst no severe consequences are anticipated following the incident, Maguire might reconsider his actions should he be approached regarding the footage. Maguire was making his first start of the season in the Premier League on Saturday, having previously come off the bench against Arsenal, Fulham and Manchester City.

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