BREAKING NEWS: “This is just wrong. The VAR and officials of the match were not doing their job. The FA should look into this. The game didn’t go as it is supposed to. My lack of trust in this system is increasing at an alarming rate. The goal that Alexander Isak of Newcastle scored was a clear offside” – Enzo Maresca criticizes the “strange” implementation of VAR after the Newcastle United clear offside goal was allowed.
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak scored a controversial goal that appeared offside, yet it was allowed, sparking widespread disbelief. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe expressed frustration over what he called the “strange” handling of VAR, voicing his growing concerns about its reliability and fairness. The disputed goal, which heavily influenced the game’s outcome, has rekindled debates around VAR’s effectiveness and the standards of Premier League officiating.
After the match, Howe remarked, “This is just wrong,” criticizing VAR and officials for failing to ensure fair play. He described the situation as an injustice that should have been prevented with proper technology use. His comments reflect an increasing dissatisfaction among fans, players, and managers frustrated by VAR’s inconsistencies.
The controversy arose when Isak’s goal was approved despite an apparent offside position, with fans from both teams quickly voicing confusion and disappointment online. Howe’s comments added fuel to the fire as he urged the Football Association (FA) to scrutinize the system and consider improvements. He admitted his trust in VAR has declined “at an alarming rate” due to repeated questionable decisions.
Originally introduced to reduce errors and enhance transparency, VAR has stirred controversy since its implementation. Although it has successfully resolved some disputes, it has also invited greater scrutiny, particularly when decisions appear inconsistent. In this case, Howe and his supporters argue that VAR failed to serve its intended purpose. “It’s strange, really,” Howe added. “If we have this technology, why isn’t it being used correctly? Today highlighted VAR’s failure to do its job.”
Howe’s criticism has resonated beyond Newcastle, with other Premier League managers and analysts voicing similar concerns. There’s a shared view that while VAR has potential, it needs better implementation to prevent these controversies. Experts and former referees have suggested that clearer guidelines for offside calls and penalty decisions could help reduce such contentious moments.
Fans, too, have expressed their discontent, with hashtags like #FixVAR trending on social media. Many feel the system detracts from the game’s spirit, with moments of joy or disappointment often hinging on lengthy reviews and ambiguous outcomes. For Newcastle fans, Isak’s goal was a triumph, but for Arsenal fans and neutrals, it was a reminder of the issues that challenge modern officiating.
