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Liverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp Criticizes VAR Following Controversial Martin Odegaard ‘Handball’ Call

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Liverpool’s manager, Jurgen Klopp, found it challenging to conceal his dismay with the match officials following a contentious penalty decision that went against his team in the encounter with Arsenal.

In a thrilling clash at Anfield on Saturday, Liverpool was held to a 1-1 draw by the Gunners, securing Mikel Arteta’s squad at the top of the table for the Christmas period.

Arsenal swiftly gained the advantage with a Gabriel Magalhaes header just three minutes into the game.

Liverpool rallied impressively and believed they had earned a penalty when Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard appeared to handle the ball inside his own penalty area.

However, referee Chris Kavanagh waved off the penalty claims amidst vehement protests from Liverpool’s players.

Despite video replays depicting Odegaard slipping and making contact with the ball, VAR chose not to overturn the decision, triggering outrage among Liverpool supporters across social media platforms.

Shortly afterward, Mohamed Salah equalized for the home side, resulting in the match concluding with a 1-1 draw.

Post-match, Klopp once again vented his frustration towards the VAR officials. “I’m pretty sure someone will explain it to me and say it wasn’t a handball but I don’t know how,” Klopp expressed to Sky Sports.

Avoiding direct blame on the on-field referee, Klopp raised questions about the decision-making process of the VAR team. “I won’t say the referee can’t see it because I have no clue where he was at that moment. But when somebody sits in their office, how can they not come to the conclusion that it might be worth having another look?”

Seeking information on the official responsible for VAR during the match, Klopp sharply responded to the lack of clarity, stating, “I don’t know? Great name.”

Later, in an interview with beIN SPORTS, Klopp seemed to direct his frustration towards former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher, known for analyzing VAR decisions on Sky Sports News. “I think we all agree that it’s a clear handball, but somebody will find something tomorrow – Mr. Dermot probably will explain and tell us why it is not a handball,” Klopp remarked.

The single point earned by Liverpool moved them back into the second position, trailing Arsenal by one point, while maintaining a superior goal difference over third-placed Aston Villa.