In a candid statement, renowned football manager Jose Mourinho has commended the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), emphasizing the transparent and fair application observed during the tournament.
Mourinho’s remarks shed light on the contrasting approaches between AFCON and European football when it comes to VAR utilization.
“I have watched AFCON more than European football. They are simply teaching us to be honest. In AFCON, VAR is used exactly the way it should be used. They do not use it to help the money magnet teams or famous teams,” Mourinho asserted.
The former Roma, Manchester United and Chelsea manager praised the AFCON VAR system for promoting fairness and equality among all participating teams.
Mourinho highlighted the impact of this approach, stating, “This is why you saw the best out of every team. Because they know VAR is not hired behind the scenes but is for everyone. They listen even to their players if the ref missed something and go check.”
Mourinho contrasted this with the European football scenario, expressing his frustration with the current limitations in VAR usage.
“In Europe, if I as a coach or a player plead with a ref to go check something, it is a red card for doing that,” he lamented, pointing out the strict regulations that can discourage honest appeals in European competitions.
The football luminary concluded his statement with a noteworthy suggestion: “The headquarters for VAR needs to be in CAF.” Mourinho’s call for a centralized VAR headquarters in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) underscores the belief that a neutral and inclusive approach to VAR could enhance the integrity and effectiveness of officiating in football globally.
As Mourinho’s comments reverberate through the football community, they prompt a broader conversation about the implementation of VAR and the need for a standardized and unbiased approach across various football competitions worldwide.
The AFCON’s model, as applauded by Mourinho, serves as a potential blueprint for fostering honesty, fairness, and transparency in the application of VAR technology.
