German great Tony Kroos has expressed skepticism about the Bundesliga’s new “Handshake Dialogue” rule, saying it will likely have little effect.
The rule, introduced in the new season, requires both team captains and coaches to meet with the referee 70 minutes before kick-off for a brief discussion. The aim is to promote respect between teams and prevent heated moments during matches.
Often, players argue with referees, commit deliberate fouls, or waste time instead of focusing on the game. The new rule was intended to address these issues.
However, not everyone is convinced. After the first match of the season, Cologne coach Lukas Kwasniok called it a “useless” rule and even suggested it should be scrapped.
On a podcast, Kroos said the rule would do little to control emotions during a match. The former Bayern Munich and Real Madrid midfielder believes the league should focus more on major issues like VAR.
“I was very surprised when I saw this rule. Kwasniok has already spoken about it. I didn’t even know it was being implemented. There are bigger problems with VAR and other matters.”
“It won’t have any impact and has no real value, especially since it interrupts the captains’ preparation for the match. You’re in the middle of getting ready, and then you have to talk about how much we like each other. By the fifth minute, no more handshakes, and then you get a yellow card.”
