The implementation of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) in football has once again come under scrutiny following a contentious UEFA Champions League match where Manchester United's Marcus Rashford was sent off. The game, which saw FC Copenhagen secure a dramatic 4-3 victory, was rife with controversy, including a VAR-awarded red card, two penalties, and multiple debates over possible offsides and handballs. Manchester United's manager Erik ten Hag voiced his frustration, stating, "I'm very disappointed about these decisions. The game is never meant to be like this. This has nothing to do with football."

The incident in question occurred when Rashford, under pressure from FC Copenhagen's Elias Jelert, attempted to shield the ball, resulting in Jelert going to ground. While the on-field referee allowed play to continue, VAR review for serious foul play was initiated, leading to Rashford's dismissal. Critics, including former players and analysts, are divided; some feel Rashford's sending off was justified in today's game, while others see it as an overreach of VAR's influence, with Liverpool's manager Jürgen Klopp commenting, "The wording, 'clear and obvious', is not the right wording."

This latest VAR controversy has reignited the debate on its role in the sport, with many managers expressing their displeasure. Sean Dyche of Everton lamented the predictability of decisions post-VAR review, while Tottenham's head coach Ange Postecoglou criticized the undermining of the referee's authority. Mauricio Pochettino, the head coach of Chelsea, metaphorically stated, "I have trust in the car, but not the driver," implying a lack of faith in how VAR is operated.

The outcry extends beyond the match itself, with managers like Arsenal's Mikel Arteta calling the situation "an absolute disgrace" and questioning the consistency of VAR decisions. This sentiment was echoed by Manchester City's manager Pep Guardiola, who suggested that referees and VARs have become too prominent in the game, humorously adding, "And the Oscar goes to… they have to take a step back." The ongoing debate suggests a need for a review of VAR protocols to ensure the technology serves the game without overshadowing it.