Slot Criticizes VAR Decision: 'Numerous Rulings Have Gone Against Us'

Arne Slot expressed little surprise when Liverpool's penalty claim against Paris Saint-Germain was overturned, citing a pattern of unfavorable decisions for his team throughout the season. The Reds' Champions League campaign ended with a 2-0 quarter-final loss to PSG at Anfield, resulting in a 4-0 aggregate defeat. Despite a spirited performance, Liverpool's hopes were dashed when Ousmane Dembele scored twice late in the game. A notable moment came when Alexis Mac Allister appeared to win a penalty, only for the referee to reverse the decision after a VAR review. Tim Sherwood, commenting on the game, described the incident as 'soft' but a penalty nonetheless. Slot, speaking to Amazon Prime, stated, 'I'm not surprised, as many decisions have gone against us this season.' He added, 'If the referee doesn't give a penalty, the VAR wouldn't have overturned it, but I've seen many soft penalties given due to contact.' Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konte also believed it was a clear penalty, saying, 'If we got the penalty and scored, it would have been a completely different game.' In the post-match press conference, Sky Sports News' Vinny O'Connor expressed surprise at the overturned penalty decision, given the contact. Slot replied, 'Me too, but not when it comes to us, as this has happened to us multiple times this season.' He referenced Manchester City players Rodri and Bernardo Silva, who had previously commented on their own unlucky experiences with referees. Slot emphasized that his team has faced similar challenges, saying, 'If you can say that, then remember the games you played against us and how many decisions went against us.' Liverpool has struggled to build on their Premier League-winning season under Slot, despite signing notable players like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz. With the pressure to secure a top-five finish and Champions League football next season, Slot acknowledged the club's transition, saying, 'The club has sold 8-10 players to make money to sign five or so very talented players. We have to sell to buy, and we're losing some players on a free transfer, like Mo Salah and Andy Robertson.' He remains optimistic about the future, stating, 'The club has shown this model works, and the future looks very good, especially if we can sign players after good players leave this summer.'