A recent report has shed light on the probable stance of Premier League clubs regarding a motion to discontinue the use of VAR in the upcoming season.
The initiative, introduced by Wolves, is slated for discussion at the Premier League’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in the following month.
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The club from the West Midlands has cited several factors for proposing the motion, including the negative effects on goal celebrations and the perceived reduction in accountability for referees on the pitch.
Moreover, they argue that VAR has led to a decline in trust and has been at the center of baseless corruption accusations.
Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon expressed his confusion over the purpose of VAR after a penalty was not awarded to him in the 3-2 loss to Manchester United, although he mentioned he was not aware of Wolves’ proposal at that time.
The debate over VAR’s advantages and shortcomings has intensified this season, with criticism coming from figures at Nottingham Forest and Burnley.
Nevertheless, a Sky Sports report indicates that the majority of Premier League clubs are in favor of retaining VAR, with Liverpool reportedly being a prominent supporter of the system.
Despite this, there is a consensus among some clubs that VAR requires significant enhancements in the future.
These clubs believe that eliminating VAR could be detrimental and potentially harm the Premier League’s reputation.
The report also suggests that a formal vote might not occur if it becomes apparent that there is insufficient backing from the other 19 Premier League clubs.
For the proposal to be adopted by the Premier League for the next season, it would require the affirmative votes of 13 out of the 19 clubs.
However, the PGMOL has already received unanimous consent from the clubs to implement semi-automated offsides—praised during the 2022 World Cup—for the next season. Additionally, they aim to introduce open communication between the officials and spectators regarding crucial decisions during the matches.
