Aston Villa to file official complaint over referee appointment

Alba Romero 2 months ago 376
Sunday's loss meant Villa missed out on Champions League qualification. AFP

According to reports in England, Aston Villa are preparing to file an official complaint to the Premier League, arguing that a more experienced referee should have been appointed to officiate their crucial match against Manchester United.

Aston Villa missed out on Champions League qualification on goal difference to Newcastle after a controversial 2-0 defeat to Manchester United on Sunday.

The club's frustration stems from a controversial decision made by referee Thomas Bramall during the game, which Villa believe significantly impacted the outcome.

The incident occurred when Bramall disallowed a goal by Morgan Rogers, blowing his whistle for a foul before the ball crossed the line—thereby preventing any VAR intervention. The decision proved pivotal, as United scored just minutes later and went on to win 2-0.

Following the match, Emery remained tight-lipped. "I spoke to the referee. He knows what I think. I don't want to comment," the manager said when asked about the incident.

Nonetheless, the club's planned complaint underscores their dissatisfaction with the refereeing appointment and the handling of such a high-stakes fixture.

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