Arsenal VAR controversy could trigger law change with talks planned for after World Cup

A VAR review overturned Callum Wilson’s 95th-minute equalizer for West Ham against Arsenal on Sunday, ruling it out after replays showed Pablo Marí putting his arm across Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. The decision, made by referee Chris Kavanagh after a near five-minute delay, has reignited debate over grappling at set pieces and could prompt law changes. West Ham, now planning a complaint to the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMO), believes the rules have been inconsistently applied this season. The incident occurred in a high-stakes Premier League match, with the result impacting both the title race and relegation battle. The controversy has drawn attention from football’s governing bodies, including the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which is expected to discuss the issue in its next round of meetings starting in autumn. IFAB director Ian Maxwell acknowledged the problem but noted that match officials currently have discretion in deciding fouls at set pieces. Former Premier League assistant referee Darren Cann proposed a solution, suggesting attacking players should not be allowed in the goal area before a corner is taken. The topic is also set to be addressed by football’s lawmakers after the World Cup, with the Premier League at the forefront of the discussion. The incident has intensified calls for clearer guidelines, as inconsistencies in VAR decisions continue to frustrate teams and fans alike.