Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has launched a scathing attack on VAR, describing it as 'a mess' and claiming his side feels decisions are 'always against us'. The outburst comes after Forest lost 2-0 to Everton last weekend, with three penalty appeals turned down, prompting the club to release a furious statement questioning the integrity of VAR official Stuart Attwell.
Speaking ahead of Sunday's match against Manchester City, Nuno said he was initially supportive of VAR but now believes it is damaging football. 'Maybe one day not too far in the future we will say football is better without VAR because it’s been a mess,' he said. He urged referees to take greater responsibility for on-field decisions, arguing that VAR should only be used as a secondary check.
Nuno expressed frustration at the emotional toll on his players, saying: 'There is frustration and disappointment and the sense we feel like it’s always against us. It’s difficult to control those emotions and it’s affecting us a lot.' He stressed that the club does not want to be personal or abusive towards referees but feels powerless when decisions go against them repeatedly.
The Football Association has launched an investigation into Forest's post-match statement, which questioned Attwell's integrity. Nuno insisted the criticism was not personal: 'It has nothing to do with Stuart Attwell. It’s the process by itself.' Defender Neco Williams also faces potential punishment for his comments after the defeat.
Reports had suggested Forest were considering legal action, but the club is now expected to respond to the FA's inquiry. Nuno confirmed he has not yet heard the audio recordings of the officials' conversations and has not been contacted by the referees' body PGMOL.
