Harry Kane, England's captain, is set to experience additional pressure during Euro 2024 due to a new UEFA rule, reported by GOAL. This rule specify that only captains are allowed to speak to referees during the tournament. This directive aims to reduce abuse directed at match officials and keep the game flowing smoothly.

Domestic leagues worldwide have tried to curtail the abuse aimed at match officials for some time. Despite issuing cautions for dissent, groups of players still tend to swarm referees when contentious decisions arise. UEFA, the governing body of European football, is taking a firmer stance on this issue for Euro 2024. They have made it clear that only players wearing the captain's armband can approach and speak to referees. Any other player who speaks out risks receiving a yellow card.

What UEFA said

UEFA's managing director of refereeing, Roberto Rosetti, explained the challenges faced by referees in the modern game and the need for this new rule:

“Being a referee in the modern game is very difficult. The official in the middle takes between 200 to 250 decisions per match – that is one every 22 seconds – in difficult and sometimes controversial situations, under huge pressure, with each of them scrutinised and re-watched from multiple different angles by fans and pundits alike. They (referees) receive a lot of information from the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), and we are ready to speak and share more details with the players and coaches to help them understand how a decision was taken.”

Rosetti further emphasized the importance of direct and respectful communication:

“Explaining a decision with up to 22 players mobbing you is impossible for a referee. It can lead to a breakdown in communication, with the beautiful game turning very ugly very quickly. We ask that all teams ensure their captain is the only player who speaks to the referee. We ask the captains to ensure their teammates do not encroach upon and surround the referee, allowing direct conversations to take place in order that the decision be relayed in a timely and respectful manner. Importantly, we want only the captain from the team who wishes to discuss a decision to be able to approach the referee.”

Impact on Harry Kane and England for Euro 2024

This new rule places additional responsibility on Harry Kane. As England's captain, he will be the sole spokesperson for his team when it comes to communicating with referees. This role requires calmness, clarity, and composure, especially in high-stress situations.

Kane, a prolific striker for Bayern Munich, will need to balance his focus on scoring goals with this new diplomatic role. He must ensure that his teammates understand and respect this rule to avoid unnecessary bookings that could impact the team’s performance and discipline on the pitch.

UEFA has also clarified that if a team’s goalkeeper is the captain, an outfield player can be nominated to speak with the referee. This adjustment ensures that communication can happen more efficiently, given that goalkeepers are often positioned far from the action and may not reach the referee quickly enough during critical moments.

England's Euro 2024 campaign

England is set to open their Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia on Sunday. Kane will be hoping that there will be minimal contentious decisions that require his intervention. Nevertheless, he must be prepared to step up and manage these situations effectively.

The new UEFA rule introduces an additional layer of responsibility for team captains like Harry Kane. By limiting communication with referees to just the captains, UEFA aims to maintain respect and order on the pitch. As the tournament progresses, Kane’s ability to handle this role will be crucial in ensuring that England can focus on their game and avoid unnecessary distractions. This rule not only tests the players' discipline but also emphasizes the importance of leadership and clear communication in football.