Galatasaray Official Calls for Increased Scrutiny of VAR Referees
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Abdullah Kavukcu, Deputy Chairman of Galatasaray Sportif AŞ, has urged for greater diligence from Video Assistant Referee (VAR) officials following his team’s 3-2 victory over Gençlerbirliği in the Turkish Trendyol Super League on November 22, 2023. Kavukcu emphasized the importance of fair officiating, particularly in light of a controversial incident during the match involving Galatasaray player Sallai.
Concerns Over VAR Consistency
Kavukcu stated that while Galatasaray aims to protect its rights and doesn’t want to escalate tensions, a review of VAR decisions is necessary. He referenced a statement made by Turkish Football Federation President İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu, who previously asserted that “referees can make mistakes, but VAR cannot.” Kavukcu expressed his confidence in President Hacıosmanoğlu and called for investigations into the Sallai incident, noting the potential for serious injury and inconsistencies in refereeing decisions for similar plays.
“The child’s leg could have been broken in Sallai’s position,” Kavukcu explained to the press after the match at RAMS Park. “After that position, the same referee had previously made a different decision for the same position in a different stadium. Necessary steps must be taken regarding this issue.”
Trust in Turkish referees, Focus on VAR
Despite his concerns, Kavukcu reiterated his trust in Turkish referees generally, stating that Galatasaray does not typically engage in post-match criticism following UEFA Champions League matches where Turkish officials also preside. He specifically requested that careful consideration be given to the selection of VAR referees for the upcoming match against Fenerbahçe.
“We did not talk at the end of those matches.we did not discuss them for a day. I trust the Turkish referees,” Kavukcu said. “The referees appointed to VAR need to be more careful, and the right referees must be selected for the Fenerbahçe match.”
Clarification on Matchday Incident
Kavukcu also addressed a brief incident with Sports Branch police during the match,clarifying that there was no notable tension. He emphasized a positive relationship with law enforcement, stating they are also citizens and there is no underlying problem.
Galatasaray’s call for greater VAR scrutiny highlights the ongoing debate surrounding officiating in Turkish football. The club hopes that increased attention to VAR consistency will contribute to a fairer and more secure surroundings for players and a more positive experience for fans.
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