Yes. Any outfield player may become the goalkeeper, but both requirements apply: the referee must be informed before the change, and the change must be made during a stoppage in play.
The basic rule on changing with the goalkeeper
An outfield player is allowed to take over in goal. The permission is broad, but the procedure is strict.
- The referee must be told before the switch is made.
- The switch must happen while play is stopped.
If either part is missing, the change has not been made in the proper way.
What happens if they switch without permission
Play does not stop just because the players changed places without permission. The referee lets play continue and cautions both players when the ball next goes out of play.
That caution does not apply in two periods:
- Half-time, including half-time of extra time.
- The period between the end of the match and the start of extra time or a shoot-out.
If the goalkeeper is injured or sent off
A team still has to have a goalkeeper when the current one cannot continue. If the side has already used its maximum number of substitutes or substitution opportunities, one of the remaining players on the field takes over in goal and changes into a shirt that clearly distinguishes them from the other players and the match officials.
If the goalkeeper is sent off, the team that committed the offence must have a new goalkeeper before play restarts. That can be a substitute or one of the remaining players on the field.
Changing the goalkeeper after a penalty has been awarded
A player may swap with the goalkeeper after a penalty kick has been awarded against their team. The same two requirements still apply: the referee must be informed before the change, and the change must be made during the stoppage before the kick is taken.
If the team has not used its maximum number of substitutes or substitution opportunities, it may also replace the goalkeeper with a substitute after the penalty is awarded against it. The referee must be informed before the substitution. The goalkeeper who goes off becomes a substituted player and takes no further part in the match.
FAQ
What if the goalkeeper is sent off?
Before play restarts, that team must have a new goalkeeper. The replacement can be a substitute or one of the players still on the field.
Can teams swap goalkeepers before a penalty is taken?
Yes, a player may change places with the goalkeeper after the penalty is awarded against their team. The referee must be told before the change, and it must happen during the stoppage before the kick.
Who goes in goal if the keeper is injured and there are no subs left?
One of the remaining players on the field takes over. That player changes into a shirt that clearly distinguishes them from the other players and the match officials.
Who is eligible for a shoot-out?
Only players who are on the field of play, or temporarily off it, at the end of the match may take part. The only exception is a substitute who comes on for a goalkeeper who is unable to continue.