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 striker Alexander Isak scored a controversial goal that looked clearly offside but was allowed to stand, sparking frustration and disappointment among players and fans. Newcastle’s manager, Eddie Howe, expressed his dismay with what he called the “strange” application of VAR (Video Assistant Referee), questioning its reliability and fairness. Howe argued that the decision, which significantly affected the game’s outcome, reignited long-standing debates about VAR’s effectiveness and officiating standards in the Premier League.

“This is simply unacceptable,” Howe stated following the match, criticizing the use of VAR and the officials’ judgment. “The game didn’t unfold the way it should have,” he continued, describing the incident as an obvious error that proper technology should have prevented. His comments have resonated with a growing number of fans, players, and managers who are increasingly frustrated with the inconsistency of VAR calls, which they feel compromise the integrity of the game.

The controversy unfolded when Isak’s goal was allowed despite appearing offside. Supporters from both sides quickly turned to social media, expressing their confusion and disappointment over the ruling. Howe’s post-match remarks added fuel to the fire, prompting calls for the Football Association (FA) to investigate the incident and consider improvements to the system. He mentioned a declining trust in VAR, saying it has been eroding “at an alarming rate” due to ongoing questionable calls.

Initially introduced to reduce human error and bring transparency to Premier League games, VAR has become a source of contention since its debut. While it has resolved certain disputes, the system has also come under heavy criticism, especially when decisions seem inconsistent. Howe and his supporters believe that in this case, VAR failed to achieve its purpose. “It’s strange,” Howe noted. “If we have this technology, why isn’t it being used as it should? Today was a perfect example of VAR not doing its job.”

Howe’s critique has resonated across the league, with other Premier League managers and analysts echoing similar concerns. There’s a consensus that while VAR has potential benefits, its implementation requires improvement to avoid incidents like this. Some experts and former referees have proposed clearer guidelines around offside and penalty decisions, which might reduce the number of contentious calls and resulting frustrations.

Fans have also been vocal, with hashtags like #FixVAR gaining popularity on social media. Many believe that the technology detracts from the true spirit of the game, as enjoyment and excitement often hinge on lengthy, sometimes uncertain reviews. While Isak’s goal was celebrated by Newcastle supporters, it served as another reminder for Arsenal fans and neutrals of the unresolved issues with current officiating. Howe’s strong stance on VAR may encourage further scrutiny from both the FA and Premier League officials. Growing public criticism from managers and players underscores an urgent need for change, with many arguing that increased transparency and consistency in officiating are essential to restoring trust in the system. Some advocates are calling for a post-game review panel to assess VAR decisions, ensuring that officials are held accountable and minimizing the chance of similar problems in future matches.

This incident adds to the expanding list of VAR-related controversies that have affected pivotal matches and standings. As the Premier League moves forward, it faces growing pressure to address these issues and improve the system. Howe’s critique highlights widespread dissatisfaction with VAR’s impact on the sport, and many fans, players, and analysts are eager to see if the league will introduce meaningful reforms in response.