Chelsea’s Pochettino calls for improved VAR implementation amidst controversy

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has called for better implementation of the VAR system amid the heated debate surrounding the use of the technology in recent weeks.

VAR played a significant role in Chelsea’s 4-1 victory at Tottenham Hotspur on Monday night, although they got the bulk of the decisions right.

However, Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou voiced his dissatisfaction, arguing that VAR is diminishing the authority of match officials after multiple checks and overturned decisions went against his team.

Pochettino says that the VAR decisions during the intense Monday night clash were correct. 

But the issues surrounding the technology transcend the Chelsea vs Spurs game as several managers, including Jurgen Klopp and Mikel Arteta, have lamented the influence of VAR on football games.

The ongoing debates surrounding VAR have highlighted the need for a more effective integration of the technology, and Pochettino is one of those who believes VAR could be put to better use.

“It is difficult to judge for me because I don’t know where Ange is, and Mikel is talking about one action,” Pochettino said in his pre-match press conference. 

“I think Monday was obvious with all of the decisions. 

“If we go back and listen to Klopp after Liverpool vs Tottenham, it is normal to complain, or maybe it’s normal to complain when Arteta believes the ball is out or fouled.

“We cannot go back with VAR. VAR is here, and we now need to try to use it in the best way because the technology is there. 

“The moment we implement the VAR was the moment to say careful, and the consequences in the next few years is going to be really tough. 

“I accept that Mikel or Klopp can complain, or Ange can say another thing. We need to justify ourself and defend our club. It is normal.”

Pochettino’s side take on Manchester City at Stamford Bridge in Sunday’s mouth-watering Premier League fixture, looking to build on their dramatic win over Spurs.

The Blues have lost just one of their last seven games across all competitions (W5, D1), but they face arguably the biggest challenge of the season against the reigning champions.