Analysing VAR’s Downfall: Insights from Mark Goldbridge on “That’s Football”
Unveiling the Controversy
Mark Goldbridge’s latest tirade on VAR, during a podcast on “That’s Football,” highlights the growing disillusionment with the video assistant referee system. In a compelling discussion, Goldbridge condemns the implementation of VAR, illustrating its profound impact on the integrity of football.
Navigating a Flawed System
The dialogue opens with a direct critique of VAR’s effectiveness, labelling it as “crumbling” and underscoring the urgency for reform. Goldbridge emphasizes, “It is all tumbling down… the fans can see through it now. They can see that there is something sinister going on.” This sentiment captures the frustration felt by fans and players alike, pushing for a re-evaluation of the technology that was once heralded as a game-changer.
Specific Incidents Stir Controversy
Throughout the episode, Goldbridge highlights several controversial incidents, particularly focusing on recent events involving Nottingham Forest. He discusses how mainstream pundits rush to defend VAR, despite obvious flaws exposed by clubs like Nottingham Forest, Liverpool, and Arsenal. These instances reveal a system struggling to maintain its credibility. For instance, he mentions, “That Nottingham Forest tweet yesterday and also what happened in the Manchester United game and the Chelsea game shows why VAR has got no leg to stand on.”
Echoes of a Dictatorship
Goldbridge doesn’t shy away from expressing his discontent with the governance of football, suggesting that those in control are more interested in maintaining power than enhancing the game. “They do not listen… they are terrified that it is crumbling apart because people are seeing through it,” he asserts. This critique extends to the relationships between governing bodies and the media, which he claims are too intertwined, influencing the narrative surrounding controversial decisions.
Calls for Immediate Action
The podcast not only serves as a platform for venting frustrations but also calls for actionable changes. Goldbridge advocates for turning off VAR temporarily to address the chaos it has introduced into the game. His emotional plea resonates with many who feel football has lost its essence, stating, “We’ve broken the game… it’s like the last season of Game of Thrones; up until then, it’s really good and then they’ve ruined it.”
Collective Voice for Change
In conclusion, Goldbridge encourages a collective response from clubs, players, and fans to challenge the status quo. “The more clubs that stand up against the PGMOL, the better,” he declares, pushing for a football landscape that respects and reflects the views of its most important stakeholders – the fans.
As the podcast wraps up, Goldbridge promises a deeper dive into the issue in the upcoming episode, ensuring that the conversation around VAR and its implications continues to evolve.