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

Arne Slot expressed no surprise at the VAR reversal of Liverpool's penalty claim against Paris Saint-Germain, stating that his team has been on the wrong end of many decisions this season. Liverpool's Champions League campaign ended with a 2-0 quarter-final defeat to PSG at Anfield, resulting in a 4-0 aggregate loss. Despite a spirited performance, the Reds were punished by Ousmane Dembele's late goals. A potential turning point came when Alexis Mac Allister's penalty claim was overturned by the referee after a VAR review, a decision that Tim Sherwood deemed 'soft' but a penalty nonetheless. Slot commented, 'I'm not surprised, as many decisions have gone against us this season. If the referee doesn't award a penalty, VAR won't overturn it, but I've seen many soft penalties given due to contact.' Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate also believed it was a clear penalty, stating that scoring from it would have changed the game's outcome. However, PSG had also been denied penalties in the first leg, with VAR overturning the referee's decision to penalize Konate for a foul. In the post-match press conference, Slot expressed his frustration, citing the consistency of such decisions against his team. He also referenced Manchester City players' comments on their own unlucky experiences with referees, highlighting the disparity in decisions against Liverpool. With Liverpool struggling to build on their previous Premier League win under Slot, the pressure is on to secure a top-five finish and Champions League football next season. Slot acknowledged the club's transition, having sold several players to fund new signings, and remains optimistic about the future, especially if they can sign quality players to replace those leaving.