Raphael Varane Slams English FA for Additional Time in League Games
Manchester United’s defender, Raphael Varane has expressed his disgust concerning the additional time that the referees will have to add during a football game in England.
The French International took to his official social media accounts on Monday, August 7, 2023, to vent his anger and frustration concerning the number of minutes that will be played in a football game when the 2023/24 Premier League season kicks off.
Officials will add the exact time lost to celebrations, substitutions, injuries, penalties and red cards, which was brought in during the World Cup last season when matches regularly went past the 100-minute mark. The concept was tested at the Community Shield game between Arsenal and Manchester City, the Gunners equalised in the 101st minute at Wembley.
“We had a meeting last week with the FA. They recommended from the referees new decisions and rules. From the managers and players, we have shared our concerns for many years now that there are too many games, the schedule is overcrowded, and it’s at a dangerous level for players’ physical and mental well-being. Despite our previous feedback, they have now recommended for next season: longer games, more intensity, and less emotions to be shown by players. We just want to be in good condition on the pitch to give 100% to our club and fans. Why are our opinions not being heard? As a player, I feel very privileged to do the job I love every day but I feel these changes are damaging our game. We want to be at our maximum level, the best we can be and put on amazing performances for fans to celebrate every week.”
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola joked that matches will end up being played until the following day.
It was annoying but we have to get used to it. I had the feeling, not because we were winning 1-0, but that not much happened to extend it for eight minutes. It’s a good question for the international board and people because they don’t consult with managers and players and we have to accept it with this amount of games. Now the games will be 100 minutes. Nothing happened today and there was eight minutes. They extend for goals. If the score is 4-3 and you put 45 seconds for seven goals, tomorrow morning at 9am I am [still] here playing.”
