Growing Scrutiny Over VAR in Premier League Amid Controversial Referee Decisions

Over 50% survey respondents want VAR retained despite majority believing football is worse off, amid ongoing controversies and managers' outcries about officiating standards in Premier League.

Despite controversial referee decisions and an increase in scrutiny, over 50% of survey respondents agree that the video assistant referee (VAR) should be retained in the Premier League.
VAR has unexpectedly become a major talking point in football, overshadowing game tactics, player performance, and league standings. The system has often led to long pauses and increased standing around during games, frustrating both managers and players.
Much of the controversy surrounding VAR decisions is based on the system's human error aspect. Critics argue that it often diminishes the authority of referees and alters the experience of the game. However, the technology has also significantly reduced referee mistakes.
While VAR's impact on football has been largely criticised, some in the industry argue that abandoning the technology is not the solution. Instead, they believe that continuous improvement and more transparency in the decision-making process is needed, including broadcasting live VAR communications.
Despite the ongoing criticism and frustrations with VAR, football analysts and industry insiders argue that the system, for better or worse, is here to stay. They believe VAR is a worthy process that has led to a more fair and arguably more exciting game.