VAR Controversy in FA Cup: Is Football Better With or Without Technology?

The absence of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the FA Cup fourth round led to several contentious decisions, reigniting the debate over its role in football. Key incidents from matches involving Manchester United, Chelsea, and Newcastle United have highlighted both the benefits and drawbacks of VAR.

In the Manchester United vs Leicester City match, Harry Maguire’s winning goal appeared to be offside. United manager Ruben Amorim admitted the goal wouldn’t have stood with VAR, while Leicester boss Ruud van Nistelrooy called it an “unacceptable mistake.”

Chelsea’s elimination by Brighton featured a controversial handball incident preceding Kaoru Mitoma’s winning goal. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca lamented the lack of VAR, stating “Without VAR it’s complicated.”

Newcastle’s victory over Birmingham City included a disputed “ghost goal” where goal-line technology was unavailable. The assistant referee awarded the goal despite uncertainty over whether the ball had fully crossed the line.

Manchester City’s win against Leyton Orient saw a potential foul on debutant Nico Gonzalez go unpunished before Orient’s opening goal. City manager Pep Guardiola noted the incident as an example of Premier League physicality.

These incidents have sparked discussions on whether football benefits more from technological assistance or traditional officiating methods. Proponents argue VAR increases accuracy, while critics claim it disrupts the flow of the game. The debate continues as football authorities weigh the pros and cons of expanding VAR usage in cup competitions.