Analysis Shows Manchester United Has Suffered The Most From VAR
Just a few months ago, in a dramatic turn of events that initially seemed to benefit Manchester United, their initial breakthrough was quickly overshadowed by controversy.
Scott McTominay’s goal, initiated just eight minutes into the game against Fulham from Alejandro Garnacho’s cross, went disallowed and cast a shadow over Erik ten Hag’s side.
The decision to call it a “subjective offside,” as commentator Darren Fletcher described it on TNT Sports, sparked disbelief in the United camp.
This moment of confusion was the result of a VAR decision which ruled that Harry Maguire was offside and not McTominay or Garnacho.
Maguire was found to be interfering with play despite being nowhere near the ball, and the decision was only made after referee John Brookes carried out a VAR review, a rarity in offside decisions.
A number of other similar incidents occurred at Manchester United this season due to VAR.
Some decisions were made against Manchester United this season;
- Alejandro Garnacho’s goal disallowed for offside against Arsenal
- Rasmus Højlund’s penalty for a foul in the penalty area by Gabriel.
- Jonny Evans’ goal disallowed for a foul on the goalkeeper.
- Violent handball by Romero in the penalty area.
- Pellistri’s action against Crystal Palace.
- Eriksen’s penalty against Bayern with his hands in the natural position.
- Harvey Elliott penalty decision at old Trafford.
- Noni madueke penalty decision at Stamford Bridge.
Alicia has now conducted data analysis to find out how these decisions derailed Manchester United’s season.
Manchester United are doing well for the rest of the season and the call for VAR is getting louder. The visual representation of the goal deficit due to VAR appears in every game and the message is clear:
United’s technology has uniquely hindered the campaign and the club and its manager Ten Hag are struggling to right a number of injustices, problems and the choices.
