The football world is in uproar tonight after former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher delivered his verdict on the controversial penalty incident involving Alexander Isak during Chelseaβs 2β1 victory over Liverpool β a flashpoint that left Arne Slot furious and fans demanding answers.
The incident took place midway through the second half when Isak appeared to go down under minimal contact from Trent Alexander-Arnold inside the box. Chelsea players immediately appealed, prompting a brief VAR check, but to the disbelief of many, the referee waved play on.
Speaking on Sky Sportsβ Ref Watch, Gallagher finally addressed the moment that has dominated post-match debate.
βIβve watched the footage several times,β Gallagher said. βThere was contact, yes β but not enough for a penalty. Isak exaggerated the fall, and the referee made the right call to let play continue. VAR was also correct not to intervene, as it wasnβt a clear and obvious error.β
THE INCIDENT THAT SPARKED ANFIELDβS FURY
Liverpool boss Arne Slot was visibly incensed after the final whistle, calling the decision βshockingβ and accusing officials of inconsistency. The Dutch manager argued that similar incidents have repeatedly gone against his team this season.
βItβs frustrating,β Slot said. βWeβve seen penalties given for far less. If that happened at the other end, it would have been awarded without a second thought.β
Fans echoed Slotβs anger on social media, flooding timelines with clips of the challenge and pointing out that softer contacts have led to spot-kicks for other sides this season.
THE FINAL WORD
Following widespread backlash, sources close to the FA confirmed that refereeing chiefs held internal discussions to review the incident. Gallagherβs assessment has since been accepted as the official stance β meaning the on-field decision will stand, with no further action or disciplinary review.
While some pundits praised the officials for showing consistency, others insist Liverpool were βrobbed again,β reigniting long-standing calls for VAR reform and greater transparency in Premier League officiating.
For now, the dust may have settled β but frustration lingers. Liverpool fans continue to demand accountability, arguing that moments like this can define a season.
Another night of controversy, anger, and debate β proof that the VAR storm in English football shows no sign of passing.