The decision to send off Bruno Fernandes has been described as mind-blowing, and it has left many questioning the use of VAR. However, a solution to these VAR controversies has already been proposed.
It’s baffling that Bruno Fernandes hasn’t been suspended for Manchester United.
It’s baffling that Bruno Fernandes hasn’t been suspended for Manchester United.
Having four officials at the stadium and two in the VAR room review the incident twice, only for the decision to be overturned days later, raises serious questions. How can six officials all make such an error?
This is turning into a complete farce, and it highlights that VAR is failing in its purpose. The FA panel that reversed Fernandes’ red card included three former players.
It might be time to consider placing former Premier League players in the VAR room to provide their expertise, especially if their input is going to be relied on for the final decision anyway.
Not every decision is clear-cut, as some depend on the subjective judgment of the referee. For example, when Michael Oliver gave Leandro Trossard a red card for kicking the ball away against Manchester City, the decision was reviewed by a five-person Premier League panel. In that case, two panel members believed Oliver was wrong, but luckily for him, the other three agreed he was right.
It highlights that not everyone can agree on every decision, which is a significant flaw with VAR that can never be fully resolved. They’re aiming for perfection, but that’s unrealistic. Reviewing an incident multiple times makes the entire process seem illogical.
Birmingham City could take a lesson in humility from their rivals, Aston Villa. As Unai Emery orchestrated a victory against Bayern Munich, Birmingham captain Krystian Bielik boldly stated that his team is “too good for League One” and “will be promoted by March.” This remark will surely be displayed in the dressing rooms of every opposing team this season.