Arsenal requests that the Premier League expand matchday squad sizes
The Guardian Sport • 2 min read • Latest: Aug 30, 2026, 9:30 PM
Last updated Aug 30, 2026
Arsenal has formally asked the Premier League to increase the number of players permitted in matchday squads beyond the current limit of 20. Manager Mikel Arteta cited concerns regarding player welfare and the mounting pressure of a congested football calendar as the primary motivations for the proposal. Under current regulations, top-flight English clubs may name 20 players for games, provided at least three are homegrown. This structure contrasts with other major European leagues, where Serie A permits 25-player squads and La Liga allows 23. Arsenal, which managed a schedule including the Premier League, Champions League, Carabao Cup, and FA Cup last season, argues that smaller squads place an unnecessary burden on rosters. The club maintains that aligning with continental standards would assist in managing the physical demands placed on players across multiple competitions.
- •Arsenal wants the Premier League to increase the 20-man matchday squad limit.
- •Mikel Arteta stated that the current rules negatively impact player wellbeing.
- •Serie A clubs can name 25 players and La Liga clubs can name 23.
- •Current Premier League rules require at least three homegrown players in the matchday squad.
- 9:30 PMThe Guardian Sport — Mikel Arteta ‘begging’ Premier League to expand 20-man matchday squads
"Arsenal manager says dropping players ‘affects wellbeing’ Serie A allows 25-player matchday squads and La Liga 23 Arsenal have asked the Premier League to increase the size of matchday squads, with Mikel Arteta saying the current system is detrimental to player welfare. Top‑flight clubs can name 20 players for games, including a minimum of three homegrown players. In Spain’s La Liga, clubs can name a matchday squad of 23, while Italy’s Serie A allows 25. Arsenal have competed on multiple fronts in recent seasons. Last year, as well as winning the Premier League, they reached the finals of the Champions League and Carabao Cup, as well as the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. With pressure increasing on the football calendar and players facing more matches, Arteta sees no reason why English teams should operate with smaller squads than those from other European leagues. Continue reading...
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