Several national teams are reportedly considering keeping substitute players inside dressing rooms during matches at this summer’s FIFA World Cup in the United States as concerns mount over the impact of high temperatures on player welfare.
The proposal, which has emerged ahead of the tournament, would see substitutes remain indoors rather than spend extended periods seated on the bench in potentially intense heat. Players would only be called out when required, allowing them to prepare for entry onto the field while limiting their exposure to the conditions.
The reported plan highlights growing attention on weather-related challenges expected during the competition, with teams and tournament organisers monitoring conditions closely as the World Cup approaches.
Under the proposed arrangement, an assistant coach would return to the dressing room whenever a substitution is being considered. The selected player would then be informed and begin warming up before entering the match.
The measure is intended to reduce the amount of time non-playing squad members spend exposed to high temperatures, particularly in host cities where hot weather is anticipated during the tournament.
Concerns over extreme heat have become an important talking point ahead of the World Cup, with several participating nations assessing ways to protect players throughout the competition. The reported dressing-room approach is one of the options being considered as teams seek to minimise risks associated with prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures.
The issue may have particular significance for Ghana, whose group-stage schedule includes two matches in the United States. The Black Stars are due to play fixtures in Boston and Philadelphia, cities that have experienced increasing temperatures in recent weeks.
As a result, discussions surrounding player welfare and heat management could become especially relevant for teams competing in similar conditions during the tournament.
While no final decisions have been announced, the reports suggest that national teams are actively exploring practical solutions to address the challenges posed by the weather. Any move to keep substitutes indoors would represent a notable departure from the traditional matchday setup, where replacement players remain on the bench throughout the contest.
FIFA and participating nations are expected to keep weather conditions under close review during the World Cup. Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of players and match officials is likely to remain a priority as teams prepare for matches in a range of climatic conditions across the United States.
With temperatures forecast to be a significant factor in some host locations, attention will continue to focus on how teams adapt their preparations and matchday routines. The reported proposal involving substitutes reflects the broader effort to safeguard players while maintaining readiness during one of football’s biggest tournaments.
