Ilkay Gundogan: Manchester City midfielder says VAR takes emotion out of football
Last Updated: 27/08/19 8:10am
Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan says VAR may help referees but thinks the technology is taking emotion out of football.
City have had a hard time with VAR already this season after being denied two goals in their opening three games due to marginal decisions which were not spotted by on-field officials.
The Premier League champions have also seen two penalty shouts turned down following VAR reviews, including during Sunday's 3-1 win away at Bournemouth when David Silva claimed to have been fouled in the box.
After the game, City boss Pep Guardiola expressed his annoyance at the decision in a short and sarcastic rant over VAR, and Gundogan has echoed his manager's frustration.
"VAR is changing football not only for the players but also for the spectators and everyone who loves the game," Gundogan said.
2:44 "Unfortunately it takes away the main reason why we all love football, and that's the emotion.
"I'm not a big fan even though we can't deny that it helps the referee. But the big problem is that even when an incident has been referred to VAR, there is still not a clear judgement.
"After the games we are still discussing whether it was a goal, a penalty or offside. And I can't see this changing even with VAR.
"That is why I don't think it makes sense, but some people who run the game have decided it is going to help the referee and it's something we're just going to have to accept because we can't change right now.
"I'm sure it is going to help us in the future but it is also creating a lot of problems and I'm not sure how we can solve it."
