The audio of the VAR check on Bruno Guimarães’ elbow on Jorginho

The ongoing controversy surrounding VAR has been exacerbated by the publication of audio recordings of officials discussing Bruno Guimares’ potential red card.

The aforementioned match occurred on November 4, 2023, when Newcastle welcomed title contenders Arsenal. There were numerous contentious instances and dubious decisions throughout the game. Kai Havertz was considered fortunate to have avoided dismissal subsequent to his reckless dive into Sean Longstaff. Arsenal supporters, meanwhile, were enraged that Anthony Gordon’s solitary goal was allowed to stand.

There were uncertainties regarding whether the ball moved out of play initially. Gary Neville later clarified the situation by teaching us all a science lecture on Monday Night Football regarding the operation of camera angles. Notwithstanding this, summonses for an infraction on Gabriel, an Arsenal defender, were also disregarded by the on-field referee. Mikel Arteta, the manager of the Gunners, criticized vehemently those in command that evening, describing them as a “disgrace.”

The Geordies also evaded severe punishment in the case of Guimares’ assault on Jorginho. After passing the ball, the Brazilian appeared to elevate his arm and clatter his opponent during first-half stoppage time. VAR evaluated the difficulty and decided not to recommend dismissal. We now understand the rationale behind this decision made by officials following the publication of the audio from Stockley Park.

On the social media platform X, soundbites featuring two VAR officials discussing the challenge were disseminated. One individual informs referee Stuart Atwell that “serious foul play” is being sought.

Once they had identified the optimal camera angle, the video assistants assessed the captured footage while providing continuous commentary regarding their reasoning. “He raises his arm in an attempt to make contact with the defender. “Upon noticing the player, he raises his arm and receives a sideways glancing blow.” Andy Madley provided a synopsis. “That does not pertain to me as the use of a weapon or violent behavior.” Stuart Burt concurred with his colleague on the second VAR, stating, “It’s not good; I don’t believe it merits more than a yellow card.”

This information was communicated to Atwell, who granted permission for the game to proceed. One can perpetually ponder the potential outcome of the game had the midfielder heeded his marching orders.

In the 2023/2024 season, the performance and impact of VAR have been scrutinized more than ever before. In at least two high-profile instances, the PGMOL has issued apologies to teams for incorrect decisions rendered by both the VAR and the field.

Gary O’Neil disclosed that Jon Moss extended an apology to him following the Wolves’ late penalty miss at Old Trafford. Andre Onana demolished the colossal striker Sasa Kalajdzic in the season-opening contest. A little over a month later, Liverpool’s Luiz Diaz’s goal against Tottenham was incorrectly ruled out. Although replays demonstrated Diaz’s obvious onside status, VAR official Darren England informed the referee that the check had been completed and he concurred with the decision made on the field. Unaware of this, the linesman had indicated that Diaz was offside.