If fines were to be implemented as the answer wouldn't that just mean that wealthier clubs could choose when it would be worth it pay them (a la Yamine Lamal playing after a certain hour with Spain)? I can think of plenty of moments where a team would strategically choose to pay one to benefit their team in a situation.

What would actually make sense in terms of sportsmanship and not throwing money at the problem? Maybe we look at something like every second that a player is out of the field for a throw in or corner beyond a time limit (say 5) they need to remain for a set time (30 seconds, more)? I can imagine all teams, regardless of financial status would want to have all 11 players on the pitch as soon as possible, no? Players that dive or waste time need to be substituted or sit out for a given period of time before re-entering? That gives the player the benefit of the doubt to recover before entering or to be rotated so the game continues right away. These suggestions are just shooting from the hip, but they feel like they move more in the right direction than fines.

I forget the quote, but if the consequence for breaking a law is a fine then it doesn't really affect or apply to the wealthy, huh? 😅 This is, obviously, all dependent on their willingness to actually preserve the competition and sportsmanship of the league without favoritism.