This is just wrong. The VAR and officials of the match were not doing their job. The FA should look into this. The game didn’t go as it is supposed to. My lack of trust in this system is increasing at an alarming rate. The goal that Alexander Isak of Newcastle scored was a clear offside” – Eddie Howe criticizes the “strange” implementation of VAR after the Newcastle United clear offside goal was allowed.

Newcastle’s Alexander Isak scored a goal that seemed clearly offside, yet surprisingly, it was permitted to stand. Manager Eddie Howe voiced his frustration with the “strange” application of VAR, raising concerns about its reliability and fairness. This goal significantly influenced the match’s outcome and has reignited discussions about the effectiveness of VAR and officiating standards in the Premier League.

“This is just wrong,” Howe stated after the match, criticizing the VAR and officials for not ensuring fair play. He noted, “The game didn’t go as it was supposed to,” calling the situation a clear injustice that should have been avoided with proper use of technology. His remarks resonate with a growing dissatisfaction among fans, players, and managers regarding VAR’s inconsistencies.

The controversy started when Isak’s goal was counted despite appearing to be offside. Fans from both teams quickly took to social media, voicing confusion and disappointment over the decision. Howe’s comments further fueled the debate, urging the Football Association (FA) to carefully review the incident and consider reforms to the system. He expressed a waning trust in VAR, which he claimed has been declining “at an alarming rate” due to repeated questionable calls.

Introduced to the Premier League to minimize errors and enhance transparency, VAR has sparked controversy since its arrival. While it has resolved some disputes, it has also led to heightened scrutiny, especially when decisions appear inconsistent. In this case, Howe and his supporters believe VAR failed to fulfill its intended purpose. “It’s strange, really,” Howe remarked. “If we have this technology, why isn’t it being used as it should be? Today was a perfect example of VAR not doing its job.”

Howe’s criticisms have resonated beyond Newcastle, with other Premier League managers and analysts expressing similar worries. There is a consensus that while VAR has potential value, its implementation needs improvement to prevent such controversies. Experts and former referees have suggested that clearer guidelines on offside and penalty decisions could help reduce the contentious moments that spark intense reactions.

Fans have also voiced their frustrations, with hashtags like #FixVAR gaining traction on social media. Many believe the system detracts from the essence of the game, with joy or disappointment often hinging on lengthy reviews and uncertain outcomes. For Newcastle fans, Isak’s goal was a win, but for Arsenal supporters and neutrals, it highlighted the ongoing issues with modern officiating.

Howe’s strong position may lead to further scrutiny of VAR by the FA and the Premier League. The increasing number of public complaints from managers and players suggests an urgent need for change. Critics argue that enhancing transparency and consistency in officiating should be prioritized to rebuild trust in the system. Some are advocating for a review panel to evaluate VAR decisions after matches, aiming to hold officials accountable and prevent similar issues in future games.

This incident adds to a growing list of VAR controversies that have impacted crucial matches and team standings. As the Premier League progresses, it faces increasing pressure to address these concerns and enhance the system. For now, Howe’s critique embodies widespread discontent with VAR’s role in the sport, and many fans and analysts are eager to see if the league will implement meaningful reforms.