Pep Guardiola has never been one to mince words, and his latest take on VAR is no exception. The Manchester City boss has likened the video assistant referee system to a "flip of a coin," urging his players to perform at such a high level that refereeing decisions become irrelevant.
The Premier League has been buzzing with VAR controversy this week, especially after West Ham had a stoppage-time goal against Arsenal chalked off following a lengthy review—a call that could have major implications at both ends of the table. For Guardiola, this is just the latest chapter in a long-running saga of frustration.
"I never trusted anything since I arrived a long time ago," the Spaniard said, reflecting on his time in English football. He pointed to City's FA Cup final defeats in 2024 and 2025 as prime examples. "We lost the two finals because the referees didn't do their jobs they should do, even the VAR."
In last year's final against Crystal Palace, City fell short despite a penalty save from Eagles goalkeeper Dean Henderson—who, Guardiola argued, should have been sent off for handling the ball outside his area. The previous year's loss to Manchester United was equally contentious, with City believing they were denied two clear penalties.
But rather than dwell on past grievances, Guardiola is taking a pragmatic approach. "When this happens, it is because we have to do better, not the referees or VAR," he emphasized. "Always I 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."
It's a philosophy that resonates beyond the pitch—whether you're chasing a title or just looking for an edge in your weekend match, the message is clear: control what you can control. For City, that means focusing on Wednesday's clash with Palace, a must-win game if they hope to cut Arsenal's lead at the top to just two points.
Even then, the title race isn't in their hands. Arsenal would need to drop points in their final two games against relegated Burnley and Palace for City to have any chance. "Of course it is not in our hands in the Premier League," Guardiola admitted. "Always I say to the players, 'Do it, do it, do it better.' The only thing we can do is do it better, that is only in your control."
For fans and players alike, it's a reminder that sometimes the best gear—and the best mindset—is the one that keeps you focused on your own game, no matter what the officials decide.