Breaking via Fabrizio Romano, a striking confession has surfaced as former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher revealed the frustrations that ultimately led to his retirement. Known for his blunt honesty, Gallagher didn’t hold back when addressing VAR’s involvement in a recent controversial incident, delivering a scathing critique of the technology that continues to polarize football.
“I was certain it was a penalty,” Gallagher confessed, his tone filled with emotion. “But VAR did what they always do — and that’s the reason I walked away. For me, the referee should have given it straight away, and VAR should never have interfered.”
His remarks have rippled through the Premier League community. Gallagher, once regarded as one of the most respected referees in English football and a familiar face in post-match analysis, let his frustrations spill over — mirroring the very concerns that players, managers, and fans have voiced since VAR’s introduction.
Originally designed to ensure fairness and accuracy, the system has instead sparked endless debates, delays, and outrage. Gallagher’s blunt words have only intensified the controversy, suggesting VAR has overstepped its purpose and undermined the flow of the game.
Supporters were quick to respond online. Some applauded him for finally saying what many believe, while others lamented that such honesty only comes after retirement. Social media lit up with comments like: “At last, someone inside admits it!” and “VAR has ruined football, Gallagher is right.”
His statement also rekindles the debate about whether referees are losing authority on the pitch. Gallagher insists that decisive calls — especially penalties — should rest with the on-field referee alone, not with a remote team analyzing replays.
This revelation goes beyond a simple opinion; it is a heartfelt outcry from a man who spent his career at football’s highest level, now exposing flaws in the modern officiating system. Whether the Premier League responds remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Dermot Gallagher’s words will resonate for a long time.
