, Sept. 12 -- The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has approved a new rule for the upcoming 2025-26 men's club competitions, allowing teams to temporarily replace one outfield player suffering from a long-term injury or illness during the league phase.

The decision aims to provide relief to clubs struggling with the increased fixture congestion brought on by expanded tournament formats, said the UEFA in a statement published on its website.

The rule, approved by the UEFA Executive Committee in Tirana, Albania on Thursday, allows for a single player replacement to be registered for the league phase of the Champions League, Europa League, and Europa Conference League, the statement said.

This can be done up to and including...