VAR

Spanish federation want Manuel Pellegrini banned for criticising VAR

The Chilean was heavily critical of the performance of the technology, and the officials, in Betis' defeat to Real Madrid

 
2:50pm on Sunday 27th September 2020
By
Paul Macdonald

The Spanish Football Federation have requested that Manuel Pellegrini be given a four-match ban following his comments on VAR and officiating after his Betis side's 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid.

Betis were on the wrong end of a number of controversial calls in the second half, culminating in a penalty awarded against Marc Bartra for a harsh handball award.

Betis were also reduced to 10 men after Emerson was accused of pulling forward Luka Jovic to the ground as he ran clear on goal.

Pellegrini said to TV after the defeat: "I say that playing against Madrid, the VAR and expulsion, all together, is difficult."

There are new, harsher regulations in Spain this season regarding the disciplinary procedure if players or coaches criticise the officials.

As a result the Federation have asked the Competition Committee to impose a four-match ban on Pellegrini for his comments, in order to act as a deterrent.

Goalkeeper Joel Robles made similar comments and AS reports that a potential case may be opened against the player as well.

READ MORE:

'We deserve respect' - Real Betis fuming after Real Madrid VAR controversy

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