Torn socks have become a phenomenon in major leagues, including the Premier League. Players justify making holes in their socks to reduce pressure on the leg muscles.
Article Four of the Football Law (Players’ Equipment) stipulates that players must wear socks, but it does not address whether they contain holes or not. The law may be amended at any time, especially in light of the dissatisfaction of some, including Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho, who criticized sports federations allowing players to play with torn socks.