As the new Premier League season approaches, VAR is already making headlines with upcoming changes aimed at improving the game, though one proposal has been blocked by managers.
Last season, VAR faced constant criticism, with controversies arising almost every weekend. Originally introduced to enhance the game, it has instead become a frequent source of debate.
For the 2024/25 season, the Premier League is focusing on six key areas to improve the fan experience and minimize delays. However, a proposal for referees to announce VAR decisions live to stadium crowds has been rejected by league managers, who feared it would only add to the delays.
According to The Telegraph, during a meeting with referee chief Howard Webb and the Premier League’s chief football officer, managers expressed concerns that decisions already take too long, leading to the scrapping of plans for a pilot scheme later this season.
Liverpool’s Transfer Attempt Blocked: Negotiations Ongoing Amid €40M Demand
To improve transparency, the Premier League has launched an account on X (formerly Twitter), which will offer real-time updates and insights from Stockley Park. The account will clarify refereeing decisions and VAR calls as they happen.
Additionally, replays of disallowed goals and those under review by VAR will be shown in stadiums, though Anfield will be an exception due to its lack of screens. This move aims to keep fans informed about key incidents that are being reviewed, addressing a common complaint that such checks often go unexplained.
A significant upcoming change is the introduction of semi-automated offside technology, which is expected to be implemented later this year. This innovation aims to reduce delays and, hopefully, shift the focus away from VAR as a constant talking point.
COMMENTS