Footballers' shin pads the piece of equipment some pros prefer not to wear
Briefly

Michael Olise's reluctance to wear shin pads was highlighted during a Champions League match, where he was instructed to wear them by the fourth official but quickly discarded them when not being watched. This act underscores a growing trend among footballers concerning their engagement with the strict rules of the game, particularly regarding gear. It hints at a larger debate on player comfort versus adherence to safety regulations in football.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) mandates that all players wear shin pads, emphasizing that they must be made of suitable material and appropriately sized to ensure protection. This has not stopped several professional players from bending the rules, often seen wearing lower socks and smaller shin guards, a trend popularized by stars like Jack Grealish and Lauren James. Their actions suggest a cultural shift towards prioritizing comfort over strict compliance with regulations.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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