Pep Guardiola
In a dramatic Carabao Cup semi-final clash, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed his frustration with the VAR system after his team was denied a goal due to a contentious offside decision. Despite this setback, City managed to secure a 2-0 lead against their opponents, showcasing resilience and determination on the field.
Pep Guardiola said: “It’s a good question. I will say it now. I would like to know why VAR in 60 minutes in the Premier League game at Newcastle when we lost 2-1, it was 0-0 and it was an insane penalty on Schar for Phil Foden and not even a consideration. And at 20 minutes there is an unbelievable penalty from a shot from Jeremy Doku that hit Thiaw’s hand, and not even VAR. Today four people were not able to decide because the line was I don’t know, but the second goal that Newcastle scored (in November) the line was perfect. I didn’t say anything when we lost 2-1 here. I didn’t say anything in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace when it was a red card after 30 minutes for [Dean] Henderson. Did I say anything? No. It’s okay. It’s fine. In the same stadium where VAR didn’t intervene? Take a look at 60 minutes and 20 minutes. Take a look at the two penalties. Coming here and winning 1-0 or 2-0 is a big advantage and a big difference for us. I don’t give any credit from Newcastle. They won deservedly the Premier League game but why did it intervene in those two moments and today it was more than six minutes and they were not able to discuss with the referee to do it? They will call me and explain it to me.”
Guardiola’s comments reflect his ongoing concerns about VAR’s consistency, particularly in crucial matches. The incident in question occurred when Antoine Semenyo’s goal was disallowed after a lengthy six-minute review, with officials determining that Erling Haaland was offside. This decision sparked Guardiola’s ire, as he recalled previous instances where he felt VAR had not intervened in City’s favor, such as in their Premier League defeat to Newcastle and the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace.
Despite the controversy, Manchester City displayed remarkable tenacity. The team capitalized on their frustration, with players like Rico Lewis and Rayan Cherki stepping up to secure a second goal in injury time. This victory gives City a significant advantage as they head into the second leg at the Etihad Stadium.
Guardiola’s passionate defense of his team highlights the emotional rollercoaster that managers often experience due to VAR decisions. As City looks to maintain their momentum, the focus will be on ensuring that such controversies do not overshadow their performance on the pitch.
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