Aston Villa to file official complaint over referee appointment

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.