Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has launched a furious attack on VAR officials after what he described as a “huge, huge mistake” in his side’s 1-0 Europa League semi-final first leg defeat to Nottingham Forest.
Emery’s Anger Over Anderson Challenge
The Spaniard was incensed that Forest midfielder Elliott Anderson escaped punishment for a reckless challenge on striker Ollie Watkins during the first half at the City Ground. Emery claimed the tackle could have broken Watkins’ ankle.
“It is a huge mistake, a huge mistake. Ollie Watkins was close to breaking his ankle. The VAR has a huge responsibility and he must give us an explanation. It is crazy!” Emery fumed.
Referee Joao Pinheiro took no action, and VAR Tiago Martins did not recommend a review. Emery insisted the system is only valuable if used correctly.
“The ref can’t watch it like me. One action like that can break his ankle. The VAR makes sense if they are fair. What is your opinion? Wow,” he added.
“In football I work 20 years as a coach, sometimes decisions are tight. I am 100 per cent with VAR, but we must manage it good and in the right way. One action like that, there is no doubt. Where is VAR?!”
Controversial Penalty Decision
VAR did intervene later in the match to award Forest a penalty after Lucas Digne was adjudged to have handled the ball. Initially, it was thought the ball had gone out of play before Omari Hutchinson crossed, but referee Pinheiro awarded the spot-kick after reviewing the pitchside monitor.
Emery refused to criticise Digne, stating: “I didn’t watch the action or speak with him. Tomorrow we will speak about everything. After analysis we can take something clear.”
Villa’s Hopes for Second Leg
Despite the defeat, Emery remains confident his side can overturn the deficit in next week’s second leg at Villa Park.
“After their goal the most important thing was not to lose our mind. After the goal we kept the same idea not to draw the match but more important was not to concede another goal. The match is not finished, it continues next week,” he said.
