The Controversial VAR Decisions in Premier League: Everton vs. Man United and Beyond

An in-depth analysis of VAR's pivotal role in the Premier League, focusing on the contentious penalty decision in the Everton vs Manchester United match.

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) continues to be a focal point of debate in the Premier League, shaping outcomes and sparking discussions on the fairness and accuracy of its decisions. The weekend's fixtures were no exception, with several critical moments influenced by VAR's intervention.

Everton vs Manchester United: The Penalty Drama

Incident Overview: In a high-stakes match that ended in a 2-2 draw, Everton was awarded a penalty in stoppage time. Ashley Young went down in the box, and referee Andy Madley pointed to the spot citing a foul by Harry Maguire. However, VAR intervened, and the decision was overturned.

VAR’s Verdict: The VAR, Matt Donohue, reviewed the incident and concluded that Maguire’s contact with Young was insufficient to warrant a penalty. Additionally, potential fouls by Matthijs de Ligt on Young were considered, but VAR deemed them not significant enough to award a penalty.

Implications: This decision sparked controversy, with Everton players and fans feeling aggrieved. The incident raises questions about the consistency and transparency of VAR decisions in critical match moments.

Aston Villa vs Chelsea: Missed Penalty?

Incident Overview: In the 83rd minute, Aston Villa’s Lamare Bogarde went down under pressure from Marc Cucurella in the penalty area. Referee Michael Oliver allowed play to continue, and VAR upheld the decision.

VAR’s Verdict: Paul Tierney, the VAR, decided that the mutual holding between the players did not justify a penalty, highlighting the subjective nature of such decisions.

Arsenal vs West Ham: Straight Red Card

Incident Overview: Myles Lewis-Skelly received a yellow card for fouling Mohammed Kudus on the halfway line. However, VAR upgraded the card to a red, judging it a denial of an obvious goal-scoring opportunity.

VAR’s Verdict: This decision was contentious, as it significantly shifted the dynamics of the match. It emphasizes the high stakes involved in VAR’s judgments on fouls and disciplinary actions.

Reflection on VAR’s Role

Despite the advancements in technology, the use of VAR still elicits mixed reactions from players, managers, and fans. The incidents from the weekend underscore the need for clearer guidelines and better communication of VAR decisions to ensure that the integrity and spirit of the game are upheld.

What to Read Next

Top 10 Rising Stars and Veterans Shaping the 2025-26 Premier League Preseason
Football

Top 10 Rising Stars and Veterans Shaping the 2025-26 Premier League Preseason

Discover the top 10 players making waves in the 2025-26 Premier League preseason, from seasoned veterans to emerging young talents.

2025-26 Premier League Season Preview: Can Chelsea Challenge? Will Man United Bounce Back?
Football

2025-26 Premier League Season Preview: Can Chelsea Challenge? Will Man United Bounce Back?

A comprehensive preview of the 2025-26 Premier League season, analyzing each team's prospects, key transfers, and potential title contenders.

Rio Ngumoha: Liverpool's Rising Star Set to Shine in the 2025 Premier League Season
Football

Rio Ngumoha: Liverpool's Rising Star Set to Shine in the 2025 Premier League Season

Discover how 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha is making waves at Liverpool with his exceptional skills and potential impact in the upcoming Premier League season.

Manchester United's Preseason Journey: A Glimpse into Their Road to Redemption
Football

Manchester United's Preseason Journey: A Glimpse into Their Road to Redemption

Manchester United's preseason tour in the U.S. has been a mix of optimism and reality checks as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming Premier League season.

Manchester United's Transfer Dilemma: Vlahovic or Sesko? Latest Rumors and News
Football

Manchester United's Transfer Dilemma: Vlahovic or Sesko? Latest Rumors and News

Explore the latest transfer rumors surrounding Manchester United, including potential moves for Dusan Vlahovic and Benjamin Sesko, and other Premier League updates.

Why the Premier League is the Ultimate Test for High-Priced Foreign Players
Football

Why the Premier League is the Ultimate Test for High-Priced Foreign Players

Exploring why the Premier League remains the most challenging league for foreign players, backed by data and expert analysis.

Premier League Transfer Frenzy: Newcastle's Bold Move for Sesko and Man United's Dilemma
Football

Premier League Transfer Frenzy: Newcastle's Bold Move for Sesko and Man United's Dilemma

Newcastle United ups the ante with a €90 million bid for Benjamin Sesko, putting Manchester United in a tight spot. Explore the latest transfer rumors and news.

Premier League Transfer Showdown: Liverpool and Newcastle Vie for Marc Guéhi
Football

Premier League Transfer Showdown: Liverpool and Newcastle Vie for Marc Guéhi

Liverpool and Newcastle United are set to clash over Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi in a high-stakes transfer battle.

Summer Transfers and Tactical Shifts: Can Europe's Top Clubs Reclaim Glory in 2025-26?
Football

Summer Transfers and Tactical Shifts: Can Europe's Top Clubs Reclaim Glory in 2025-26?

An in-depth analysis of how Europe's top football clubs are addressing last season's shortcomings through summer transfers and tactical changes.

Arsenal's 2025-26 Third Kit: A Nostalgic Tribute to Highbury
Football

Arsenal's 2025-26 Third Kit: A Nostalgic Tribute to Highbury

Arsenal unveils its 2025-26 third kit, a stylish homage to Highbury, blending retro elegance with modern design.

Ruben Amorim's Vision: Reviving Manchester United's Glory
Football

Ruben Amorim's Vision: Reviving Manchester United's Glory

Ruben Amorim discusses Manchester United's cultural transformation, new signings, and his vision for the club's future.

Manchester United's Key Players Under Ruben Amorim's Spotlight in 2025 Season
Football

Manchester United's Key Players Under Ruben Amorim's Spotlight in 2025 Season

Explore how Manchester United's key players are shaping up under Ruben Amorim's management in the crucial 2025 season.

Arsenal's Asia Tour: Gyökeres' Debut, Dowman's Rise, and Arteta's Strategy
Football

Arsenal's Asia Tour: Gyökeres' Debut, Dowman's Rise, and Arteta's Strategy

Explore Arsenal's preseason Asia tour, featuring Viktor Gyökeres' debut, Max Dowman's rise, and Mikel Arteta's strategic insights.

Bruno Fernandes to Al Nassr: Cristiano Ronaldo's Role in the Blockbuster Transfer
Football

Bruno Fernandes to Al Nassr: Cristiano Ronaldo's Role in the Blockbuster Transfer

Al Nassr is making a bold move to reunite Bruno Fernandes with Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League. Get the latest on this potential blockbuster transfer.

Manchester United's Transfer Strategy: A Roadblock to Premier League Success
Football

Manchester United's Transfer Strategy: A Roadblock to Premier League Success

An in-depth analysis of Manchester United's flawed transfer approach and its impact on their Premier League ambitions.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.