“If there’s a VAR intervention that could be left or right the decision goes against us,” says Liverpool boss
Arne Slot says he believes there is a clear pattern of decisions going against Liverpool after a controversial moment in their 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The Liverpool manager questioned the decision to allow Benjamin Sesko’s first-half goal to stand after a VAR review, arguing the forward may have handled the ball before scoring.
“If it was a touch, which I think it is because if you know a bit about ball sports, you know that if a ball has a certain curve and the curve changes, there must have been a contact,” Slot said.
“But if it’s light then we should have a debate in football about whether that’s enough to disallow a goal. I don’t think it’s a surprise to anyone this season that if there’s a VAR intervention or if there’s something that could be left or could be right [50-50] then the decision goes against us.”
However, Liverpool’s coach accepted responsibility for the poor performance. “The second goal [Sesko] we did not concede because of the handball – we lost it because we lost the ball in a stupid position, so we have to first look at ourselves,” Slot said.
“This is a complete pattern over the season, but there is also a pattern we concede ridiculous goals.”
United went on to secure a 3-2 victory, completing a first league double over Liverpool since 2015-16 and confirming their place in next season’s Champions League. Liverpool, meanwhile, still need three points from their remaining matches to secure a top-five finish.
Slot admitted he was frustrated his side did not at least secure a point.
“I wouldn’t say I’m concerned, but I am completely aware we need three points,” Slot said. “That is why I am so annoyed we did not get them today. If you are 2-2, coming back from 2-0 down, you should at least come out with a draw.”
