Ange Postecoglou Questions New VAR System Trial For Carabao Cup

JAKARTA - Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has voiced his disapproval of the new VAR (Video Assistant Referee) procedure which will be implemented in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semifinals this week.

In the trial, the referee will explain VAR's decision to the audience through the microphone inside the stadium.

This was done in Arsenal's match against Newcastle United on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, early morning WIB.

Furthermore, the trial will also be carried out when Tottenham host Liverpool on Thursday, January 9, 2025, early morning WIB.

This trial is limited when the referee visits the sidelines monitor to see subjective decisions.

After a decision is made on things like offside and handball that are accidental by goal scorers, the referee will announce it to the entire stadium.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said he supported the change for providing clarity and communication, but Postecoglou insisted he was not a supporter.

"Did I welcome him? No. In your opinion, if they show handball, our fans will be happy?"

"Will they come and say, oh, that's great, have they explained it?" Postecoglou said at a press conference ahead of Liverpool's meeting, January 8, 2025.

Potecoglou has often criticized VAR during his tenure in Spurs. Most recently, he was furious at VAR's decision to beat Tottenham 1-2 against Newcastle United last weekend.

At that time, The Magpies' goal came after the ball hit Joelinton's arm.

"However, at the same time, I have to accept that it will happen. I have to accept that this is the way forward."

"I have to accept that I have to be a part of it. It's no surprise that I'm not some kind of support for things like that," said Ange Postecoglou again.

Meanwhile, Tottenham must face leaders of the English League, Liverpool, in the Carabao Cup semifinals which will be held in two legs.

Tottenham's last Premier League Cup trophy came 16 years ago.

Spurs looked at the match against Liverpool with a storm of injuries and difficulties in the game. No wonder they were not seeded to advance to the Carabao Cup final in the hope of winning trophies this season.

Moreover, they had to travel to Anfiled in the second leg which was held on February 7, 2025.