Which player is allowed to use their hands during play?

The goalkeeper is the only player allowed to use their hands during play, and this rule is fundamental to the structure of soccer. The role of the goalkeeper is unique, tasked with protecting the goal from opposing players attempting to score. This special privilege is confined to a specific area, known as the penalty area or goal area, where the goalkeeper can handle the ball. Outside of that designated region, the goalkeeper must adhere to the same rules as every other player and cannot use their hands.

The emphasis on the goalkeeper’s ability to use their hands highlights the distinct roles within the game and is integral to the strategies employed by teams, particularly in defense. This regulation also ensures that the game maintains its flow and pace, as allowing all players to handle the ball would alter the dynamics of play significantly.

In contrast, players from other positions, including defenders and attackers, must use their feet or other parts of their body—except their arms and hands—to control the ball, thereby adhering to the standard rules of soccer governing ball handling.