According to financial expert Kieran Maguire, there’s a growing demand for significant alterations to the VAR system in the Premier League due to dissatisfaction expressed by various clubs. The Telegraph disclosed ongoing talks among football regulatory bodies regarding potential modifications to VAR following criticism from top-tier clubs.
Arsenal issued an official statement urging PGMOL to review officiating standards in the Premier League after a controversial goal by Anthony Gordon was allowed. Earlier, Liverpool had written to PGMOL regarding a disallowed goal by Luis Diaz against Tottenham.
Maguire recognizes that VAR has effectively reduced errors, meeting its primary goal in football. However, he empathizes with clubs frustrated by the financial implications of each league position, as every position can mean approximately £2.5 million in revenue. The variance of a few points by season’s end could result in a significant £10 million difference for clubs.
Although VAR was introduced to minimize mistakes, Maguire highlights how attention often focuses on the small percentage of incorrect decisions, potentially overshadowing its broader benefits. He cites examples like the mistaken disallowed goal for Luis Diaz against Spurs and an incident where incorrect lines were drawn during a Brighton-Crystal Palace match last year.
Emphasizing the financial impact, Maguire explains why clubs are keen on precise decisions, given the substantial financial rewards tied to league standings. The frustration expressed by clubs, highlighted by Arsenal’s statement, underscores the importance of accurate officiating, particularly in situations contested due to VAR decisions.
While acknowledging the system’s flaws, Maguire argues that VAR has generally succeeded in reducing errors in football, fulfilling its intended purpose. He urges a balanced view, calling for recognition of both the broader positive impact and the need to rectify specific shortcomings within the system.
As discussions continue on potential changes to VAR, the ongoing debate prompts consideration about striking a balance between addressing concerns and maintaining the system’s beneficial impact on improving officiating accuracy in football.
