VAR announcements to be made in stadium for Arsenal vs Newcastle League Cup semi-final | OneFootball

Arsenal have officially announced that their League Cup semi-final against Newcastle United will feature a groundbreaking trial aimed at improving VAR transparency.

In a statement released to fans, the club confirmed that referees will announce VAR decisions directly to the crowd, a first for English football.

The Gunners host Newcastle at the Emirates Stadium in the first leg on January 7 before travelling to St James’ Park for the return fixture on February 5.

The matches are during a hectic period for Arsenal, who are competing across four competitions, including the Premier League and Champions League.

The trial will allow referees to deliver final decisions over the stadium’s PA system.

Arsenal highlighted that only the outcome of VAR reviews will be announced, not the full discussions between officials. This aims to offer greater clarity without overwhelming fans with technical details.

The English Football League (EFL) has taken inspiration from FIFA’s use of in-stadium VAR announcements, successfully trialled during the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

According to the EFL, the move is part of a broader commitment to transparency and technological advancements that benefit match officials and supporters.

PGMOL chief Howard Webb, a strong advocate for improving VAR’s public perception, has supported the initiative.

Since its introduction in 2019, VAR has been embroiled in controversy, often criticised for its lack of consistency and transparency. This trial is a proactive step towards addressing those concerns.

Arsenal’s semi-final against Newcastle is an ideal stage for this pilot. With both sides battling for a place in the final, the stakes are high, and VAR decisions could prove decisive.

By communicating verdicts directly to the crowd, the trial will aim to reduce confusion and build trust in the system.

This new approach will also be applied in the other semi-final between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur, ensuring its viability is tested across multiple high-profile fixtures.

If successful, it could become a permanent feature in English football, reshaping how fans engage with controversial moments.