Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp has described the decision to disallow Gabriel Martinelli’s late goal against Fulham for offside as “the biggest VAR decision of the season so far.”
Arsenal appeared to have secured a dramatic 1-0 win in the 88th minute when Bukayo Saka headed in Martinelli’s cross. However, a VAR review overturned the goal after determining that Martinelli was offside in the build-up.
This decision resulted in a 1-1 draw, denying Arsenal the opportunity to cut Liverpool’s lead to just four points. Redknapp commented on the implications of the review:
“What a weekend for Liverpool. Man City dropping points, Arsenal dropping points and they’ve got themselves into an even better position.”
He added:
“Arne Slot would have had his heart in his mouth watching those final few minutes and the biggest VAR decision of the season so far.”*
Arsenal’s late disallowed goal highlights the unpredictability of VAR’s influence on key moments. With Liverpool in a strong position at the top of the table, Arsenal’s chances to keep pace are narrowing as the season progresses.
