In Arsenal’s recent tense clash with Chelsea, Kai Havertz believed he had scored the opening goal against his former club, only for it to be ruled out by VAR. The goal came after Declan Rice took a quick free-kick, setting up Havertz to calmly finish past Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. Havertz celebrated by putting his finger to his lips in front of the Chelsea fans, but VAR quickly intervened and flagged him offside.
The Premier League Match Centre clarified the decision, explaining that although referee Anthony Taylor initially allowed the goal, VAR reviewed the incident and determined that Havertz had moved ahead of Levi Colwill before Rice’s pass, placing him in an offside position. This level of transparency, supported by PGMOL chief Howard Webb, is designed to help both fans and players better understand VAR calls.
Arsenal, having faced setbacks with recent defeats to Inter Milan and Newcastle, were eager to regain form. Despite a difficult run in the Premier League since their 1-0 win over Southampton on October 5, they remain in striking distance of the top spot. With Manchester City also struggling, including suffering a fourth consecutive loss, Arsenal, along with other title challengers like Liverpool—who are five points clear after beating Aston Villa—are well-positioned to capitalize as the season unfolds.
