Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino stated that following a string of contentious decisions this season, especially involving Video Assistant Referee (VAR), Premier League managers ought to be more involved in creating refereeing standards.
To break their unbeaten start to the season in England’s top flight, Pochettino’s team delivered Tottenham Hotspur a 4-1 setback earlier this month in a tumultuous and contentious manner.
There were five goals disallowed in the London derby, numerous VAR reviews, 21 minutes of stoppage time, injuries, and on-field flare-ups.
Once a harsh opponent of VAR, the Argentine now supported the technology and claimed that all of the rulings were just.
But Pochettino was incensed when Chelsea’s 4–4 home tie with Manchester City before the international break resulted in a penalty kick.
“We all understand perfectly that the referees’ job is really tough,” Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho stated prior to the team’s trip to Newcastle United.
“The issue with the VAR, though, is that it can generate frustration at times throughout the game. Sometimes the referee is not in charge. The VAR cannot receive complaints. That presents a challenge.
After the draw at Stamford Bridge, he ran onto the pitch to confront referee Anthony Taylor. He vowed he will attempt to control his emotions going ahead.
“I believe we become frustrated occasionally. Pochettino continued, “I believe that coaches should collaborate throughout the season and be more involved in decision-making.
Arriving the week before the Premier League season begins and declaring, ‘Okay, the new regulations are this,’ is not (optimal). What are your thoughts? Nothing, as you’ve already decided what to do.”
Chelsea, which is in 10th place with 16 points from 12 games, will visit Newcastle, which is in seventh place, at St. James’ Park later on Saturday.
(Editing by Jacqueline Wong; reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Bengaluru)