Guardiola Calls for Clarity from Referee Chief After VAR Controversy

Pep Guardiola has called for an explanation from referees’ chief Howard Webb after a controversial VAR decision during Manchester City’s match against Newcastle United. This post-match commentary came in the wake of a disallowed goal by Antoine Semenyo in City’s 2-0 victory at St James’ Park, a crucial first leg in the Carabao Cup semifinal.

Despite the successful result, Guardiola was displeased with the nearly six-minute VAR review that ultimately ruled out Semenyo’s second goal of the evening. His frustration was compounded by a previous incident during a 2-1 loss to Newcastle in November, where a late challenge on Phil Foden by Fabian Schär went unpunished, despite the Key Match Incidents Panel later acknowledging that a penalty should have been awarded.

Guardiola stated, “I would like to know why VAR in the Premier League game at Newcastle when we lost 2-1 did not give an obvious penalty on Schär against Phil Foden. Today, four officials could not make a decision, yet the line for Newcastle’s second goal was clear. I have no suspicion regarding that decision over the past ten years. I remained silent after our 2-1 loss here.”

He anticipates that Howard Webb will provide an explanation soon. Additionally, Guardiola recalled an incident from May’s FA Cup final against Crystal Palace, where goalkeeper Dean Henderson appeared to handle the ball outside the penalty area, which he felt warranted a red card.

“I didn’t raise any concerns during the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace when it was clear that there should have been a red card for Henderson after just 30 minutes,” he remarked. “In ten years, even when we lost in semifinals of major competitions, I have chosen to remain quiet, except for a few comments on the touchline. But here, I say nothing.”

The second leg of the semifinal is set to take place on February 4 at the Etihad Stadium, where the winner will face either Chelsea or Arsenal in the final.