Mauricio Pochettino, manager of Chelsea, criticizes VAR and argues decision ‘harms’ Premier League.
The Blues believed they had secured a hard-fought victory at the end of an intense second half. Conor Gallagher’s goal had brought his team back into the game after trailing 2-0 at halftime, with his assist and stunning left-footed strike. However, Disasi’s added-time header was initially allowed but then ruled out after a VAR review of a challenge by Badiashile just before the goal.
This decision led to Chelsea players confronting the referee and Pochettino criticizing VAR, in light of another recent controversial decision against the Blues in the FA Cup semi-final. Gallagher, reflecting on his goal, expressed disappointment at the disallowed header but emphasized the team’s resilience in the game. Frustration with the VAR decisions has led Pochettino to criticize the impact on the Premier League and English football, particularly referencing a previous incident in the FA Cup.
Despite the setback, Gallagher remains positive about the team’s performance and their chances in the Premier League. Currently placed ninth in the league, Chelsea still has an outside chance of qualifying for European competition, holding at least one game in hand over most other teams.
