FIFA Council Approves Consultation on Mandatory Homegrown U-21 Player Rule

The FIFA Council has unanimously approved the launch of a consultation process regarding a proposed regulation that would require senior club teams to field at least one homegrown player from the Under-20 or Under-21 category during matches.

The initiative is aimed at promoting youth development and increasing opportunities for locally trained players within senior squads across global club football.

According to the proposal, all relevant stakeholders—including clubs, leagues, and player representatives—will be consulted as part of the review process. Feedback gathered during this phase will help shape the final framework of the regulation.

A formal proposal is expected to be presented to the FIFA Council within the next 12 months, following the completion of consultations and further evaluations.