Aston Villa boss Unai Emery was left fuming after a controversial VAR decision overshadowed his side's 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final. The only goal of the match came from the penalty spot—a decision Emery actually accepted—but it was the incident that didn't result in a red card that truly sparked his fury.

In the 65th minute, Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson lunged into a dangerous challenge on Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins, catching him studs-up on the ankle. Despite the severity of the tackle, VAR officials opted not to intervene, leaving Emery bewildered and frustrated. "The referee did a fantastic job managing the match for 90 minutes," Emery said. "But after watching the VAR action with Ollie Watkins, it's a huge mistake. He was close to breaking his ankle. It's crazy."

The Spanish tactician didn't hold back, questioning the very purpose of VAR. "One action like that can break his ankle, and it's so clear on the VAR. There is no doubt. Where is the doubt? Where is VAR? Where is the referee? Wow, crazy." Emery emphasized his support for the technology but insisted it must be used correctly. "I am 100% for VAR, but we must manage it in the right way. An action like that makes no sense because it's so clear."

As if the result wasn't painful enough, Villa also suffered a potential injury blow. Key midfielder Amadou Onana was forced off in the first half with a calf issue. "He was telling us he was feeling something in his calf," Emery updated. "I don't know how he's going to recover. Hopefully in a few days, but we must be careful with him." With the second leg looming, Villa fans will be anxiously awaiting news on both the appeal and Onana's fitness.