Pep Guardiola has reignited debate over VAR after openly admitting he has “never trusted anything” involving refereeing technology in football.
The Manchester City FC manager made the comments following Arsenal’s narrow 1-0 win over West Ham, a result that further tightened the Premier League title race.
VAR controversy fuels title race tension
Arsenal were awarded all three points after West Ham had a late equaliser ruled out following a VAR review for a foul on goalkeeper David Raya.
The decision proved decisive in the race at the top of the table, with Arsenal moving five points clear of City, who still have games in hand.
“I have never trusted VAR” — Guardiola
Guardiola did not hold back when asked about the incident, insisting his focus remains on City’s performances rather than refereeing decisions.
“I have never trusted anything [with VAR] since I arrived a long time ago,” he said.
He added that teams must take responsibility for results rather than blaming officials.
“If you want to be in that position, do better… the other one is a job for the institutions,” he stated.
Focus shifts to Crystal Palace clash
Despite the controversy, Guardiola stressed that City must immediately shift attention to their next fixture against Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium.
With the title race still open, City know that anything less than maximum points could prove costly in their pursuit of Arsenal.
