VAR once again finds itself at the centre of Premier League controversy after a penalty decision in the Manchester derby reignited claims of bias towards Liverpool. During Manchester United's clash with Manchester City at the Etihad, referee Anthony Taylor initially waved away appeals for a spot-kick when Bernardo Silva appeared to trip Marcus Rashford. However, after a VAR review, the decision was overturned, and Rashford converted the penalty to level the scores.
The incident provoked a storm on social media, with rival fans suggesting a conspiracy that VAR is favouring Liverpool’s title charge. One fan fumed: 'When are the FA and Liverpool going to get investigated for the clear corruption in the league?' Another tweeted: 'Hands up all those who think that same penalty decision would NOT have been given against Liverpool by bent VAR?'
Earlier in the season, Liverpool benefited from a controversial VAR decision in their 3-1 win over City, when a clear handball was not given as a penalty. That sparked a trend online of fans accusing VAR of bias. The latest incident, despite Liverpool not being involved, has revived those accusations.
There was further controversy later in the first half when City appealed for a penalty after Fred handled the ball. VAR reviewed the incident but upheld the on-field decision, leaving Pep Guardiola and the Etihad crowd incensed.
Anthony Martial doubled United’s lead shortly after the penalty, but the focus remained on VAR’s role in the game. The Premier League continues to face scrutiny over the consistency of its officiating, with managers and pundits alike calling for reform.
