VAR in football remains divisive, sparking outrage frequently. In the 2023/2024 Premier League season’s early stages, six contentious moments have already arisen, notably involving Man United’s Andre Onana and Nathan Ake’s goal against Fulham.
The Premier League has released audio explanations for these incidents under “Match Officials: Mic’d Up,” led by Howard Webb of Professional Game Match Officials Limited.
The Onana incident’s audio is particularly interesting. In the closing minutes at Old Trafford, a high ball entered the hosts’ area. Onana attempted to challenge for it but missed, colliding with Wolves’ striker Sasa Kalajdzic.
Both Kalajdzic and Craig Dawson jumped for the ball, with Dawson ultimately making contact as Onana collided with the opposition striker.
Referee Simon Hooper awarded no penalty, and VAR Michael Salisbury affirmed his decision. Here’s how their conversation transpired.
Hooper begins by saying:
“No way! It’s like collisions, we don’t give those…”
The VAR responds:
“I want to view this because I think Onana collides with him. He’s trying to reach the ball but he’s late… and he blocks in. So the goalkeeper goes to challenge for the ball and he makes aerial contact with the Wolves player. It’s late and clumsy, in my opinion.”
The official then concedes that a very late aerial challenge was made but appears uncertain.
I think because the Wolves player doesn’t head the ball… yeah, because Dawson heads it… it’s a normal collision, as they’ve both challenged the ball. Yeah and therefore, it’s a normal collision because they’ve both challenged for the ball.”
Here is the full conversation of the incident: