How VAR Decisions Affect League Clubs in 2024-25

In the 2024-25 soccer season, Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decisions play a crucial role in determining the outcome of key matches. While the technology was introduced to ensure fairness, its impact on clubs, players, and fans continues to spark debate. In this blog, let’s explore how VAR decisions affect League clubs in 2024-25.

The Role of VAR in Modern Soccer

VAR was introduced to help referees make accurate decisions in four key areas: goals, penalties, red cards and error recognition. To a large extent, VAR has been successful in correcting errors that may have gone unnoticed on the field. However, during the 2024-25 season, controversial penalties raised questions about its reliability and impact on the flow of the match.

Controversial VAR Moments in 2024-25

Several clubs have already expressed their disappointment with VAR decisions this season. Here are some of the most frequently cited cases:

Barcelona vs. Atlético Madrid: A highly contentious penalty awarded to Atlético saw Barcelona drop crucial points in their title race. Analysts believe the decision was subjective, sparking debate about consistency.

Real Madrid vs. Sevilla: A late penalty awarded to Sevilla after a lengthy VAR review resulted in a surprising draw for Real Madrid. The decision was heavily criticized for taking too long and disrupting the flow of the game.

Arsenal vs. Manchester United: Arsenal’s disallowed goal for offside in the final minutes of the game was a defining moment. Fans and analysts questioned whether such a high profit margin should be considered.

Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur: In one of the most controversial games of the season, Liverpool had a legitimate goal incorrectly ruled offside. This caused outrage amongst fans, and the club released an official statement calling for higher standards of VAR.

Napoli vs. Inter Milan: A Napoli defender received a harsh red card after a VAR check left the team down to 10 men. Inter rallied to win the match, crushing Napoli’s hopes of winning the title.

AC Milan vs. Roma: In the 88th minute, a minor offside call prevented Roma from equalizing. The disappointment of fans and players was palpable, as the decision was deemed too technical to be fair.

These moments highlight how VAR can affect even the biggest clubs and change the course of the league.

How VAR Decisions Affect League Clubs in 2024-25

1. Psychological Effects on Players
   Players usually celebrate goals cautiously, waiting for VAR confirmation. This delay can diminish the emotional intensity of the game and impact player morale. Clubs need to make sure their teams stay focused, even if the decision doesn’t go their way.
2. Fan Reactions
   VAR has divided fans. While some appreciate its ability to correct mistakes, others feel it disrupts the flow and enjoyment of watching live soccer matches. Clubs left to deal with disgruntled fans when decisions go against them.
3. League Standings
   A single VAR decision can significantly influence a club’s position in the table. For example, a disallowed goal or awarded penalty could mean Europa League qualification or nothing at all.
4. Financial Implications
   Clubs rely on positive results to maintain revenue streams from sponsorship, ticket sales and merchandise. Controversial VAR decisions can cost clubs millions of dollars by impacting their success in the league.

Are Clubs Adapting to VAR?

As VAR becomes a permanent fixture, clubs have begun adapting their strategies:

• Improved Communication with Referees: Managers and players are learning to calmly communicate with officials to avoid unnecessary yellow cards or distractions.
• Video Analysis Teams: Clubs now employ analysts to evaluate VAR trends and help players understand how referees make decisions and how to avoid unnecessary fouls.
• Mental Training: Teams are focusing on mental resilience to ensure players stay motivated, even if the decision is not what they thought it would be.

Clubs Advocating for VAR Improvements

While many clubs accept VAR as part of the modern game, some are pushing for improvements:

• Liverpool: Liverpool have called for more transparency in the VAR decision-making process after their controversial goal against Tottenham was ruled out.
• Manchester City: Pep Guardiola has publicly expressed his frustration at inconsistent handball decisions, urging officials to clarify the rules.
• Real Madrid: The club called for faster VAR assessments to avoid lengthy interruptions which disrupt the pace of the game.
• Juventus: Juventus raised concerns about bias and inconsistency in the use of VAR after a series of penalties against them.

These clubs are demanding changes to ensure VAR benefits all teams equally.

Conclusion

There is no denying that VAR has changed soccer by providing a higher level of decision-making accuracy. However, its impact on clubs, players, and fans remains a hotly debated topic. Whilst it has brought fairness to the game, it has also created challenges that clubs must be careful to address.

As the game evolves, so too must the technology and its application, ensuring it enhances rather than detracts from the beautiful game.