As the Premier League gears up for a pivotal decision on the fate of VAR at the end of the season, the Sky Sports panel, including Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane, is resoundingly in agreement: VAR should be eliminated from the league.
The impetus for this vote stems from a bold move by Wolves, who publicly voiced their discontent with the current state of VAR. Their statement underscored a deep respect for the league and its stakeholders but highlighted a fundamental discrepancy between VAR’s promise of accuracy and the essence of the sport. Wolves advocated for the removal of VAR starting from the 2024/25 season onward.
Rooney and Kean Unified Voices on Sky sports
Ahead of the Manchester United vs Newcastle United fixture, Wayne and Roy added their voices to the chorus of discontent regarding VAR. Rooney, known for his outspoken views, emphasized the importance of preserving the enjoyment of the game, expressing frustration with VAR’s disruptive influence on the flow and excitement of matches.
Keane, echoing his sentiments, emphasized the inherent acceptance of human error in football and criticized VAR for its detrimental impact on the game’s pace and overall experience for players and fans alike.
Advocating for Traditional Officiating
Rooney vividly painted a picture of the frustration felt when goals are disallowed or celebrations delayed due to VAR interventions. He echoed the sentiments of many fans and players, arguing that the current system detracts from the spontaneity and joy that make football special. Both he and Keane advocated for a return to traditional refereeing, imperfect though it may be, believing it would ultimately enhance the game’s integrity and enjoyment.
As the Premier League clubs prepare to cast their votes, the consensus among pundits and stakeholders is crystal clear: VAR’s presence in the league has been a contentious issue, disrupting the natural flow of the game and overshadowing its excitement. Voices like his and Keane’s underscore a widespread desire for a return to the simplicity and purity of football, unencumbered by the controversies and delays brought about by technological intervention.
