Guardiola says VAR decisions arelike a coin flip.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said that video‑assistant referee decisions amount to “a flip of a coin,” adding that Premier League clubs cannot depend on VAR to produce consistent results.

BBC Sport reported on Wednesday that the Spaniard made the comments as discussion over officiating standards intensified after a contentious VAR review in the title race between West Ham United and Arsenal.

Guardiola noted that his side has also been affected by questionable calls in recent seasons, citing Manchester City’s losses in the 2024 and 2025 FA Cup finals.

“I never trust anything since I arrived a long time ago. I always learned you have to do it better, do it better, be in a position to do it better because you blame yourself with what you have to do, because (VAR) is a flip of a coin.”

In last year’s final against Crystal Palace, City were frustrated when goalkeeper Dean Henderson avoided a red card after handling the ball outside the penalty area; Henderson later saved a penalty as Palace secured the win.

Guardiola also referred to the previous year’s final loss to Manchester United, arguing that City should have been given two penalties in that match.

While criticizing officiating, Guardiola emphasized that players should concentrate on their performances rather than on decisions beyond their control.

“When this happens it is because we have to do better. “The only thing we can do is do it better, that is only in your control,” Guardiola said.

City remain in contention for the league title and will face Palace in a crucial Premier League match before meeting Chelsea in this season’s FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium.

Gilbert Ekugbe

Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand