Hugo Sánchez, former footballer and ESPN commentator, has suggested allowing up to 10 substitutions per match to reduce player injuries caused by the intense match schedules. This idea comes amid a spike in serious injuries in European football, like recent ones to Ter Stegen (Barcelona) and Rodri (Manchester City).

Sánchez emphasized that with more subs, teams could keep up the intensity without risking the players' health. He pointed out that the packed schedule—between domestic leagues, the Champions League, and the new Club World Cup format—is wearing players down, leaving little time for proper recovery.

Right now, teams can only make five substitutions per match, but Sánchez believes that's not enough to prevent muscle injuries and ligament tears, which are becoming more frequent. Under his proposal, the 10 subs would still need to be made within the three substitution windows allowed during the game.

The idea has sparked debate in the football world, with mixed opinions on whether changing the rule would benefit the sport or alter the essence of the game. However, the growing concern over player welfare is a pressing issue, and this proposal could be a step toward more effective solutions.