In the battle for the Champions League, Aston Villa is the big loser in England. First, keeper Emiliano Martínez is sent off, then a referee decision causes a stir.
Aston Villa has dramatically missed out on Champions League qualification. Coach Unai Emery’s team lost 0-2 (0-0) at Manchester United and slipped to sixth place on the final matchday of the Premier League due to the results of their rivals.
Shortly before the end of the first half, the drama unfolded when keeper Emiliano Martínez saw the red card. After a bad misplaced pass from Matty Cash, United striker Rasmus Höjlund almost got to the ball and would have been through on goal.
Emiliano Martínez has to leave the field
But Martinez sprinted towards the Dane and cleared him out with a body check. The referee did not hesitate and showed the Argentine goalkeeper the red card.
Despite being outnumbered, Villa suddenly celebrated the supposed lead in the 72nd minute – after a blunder by the United defense.
Controversy Over Disallowed Villa Goal
Harry Maguire failed to control a long ball, Morgan Rogers intervened. Goalkeeper Altay Bayindir also went for the ball and had his hands on it, but did not really have control of the ball when Rogers poked the ball away and into the goal.
Referee Thomas Bramall denied the goal, much to the annoyance of coach Emery. The VAR did not intervene to correct the decision.
The Premier League’s referee account provided the explanation: Because the referee had already interrupted the game with a whistle before the ball crossed the line, the VAR could not intervene.
Villa Captain Struggles with Decision
“That’s hard to take, especially under these circumstances,” Villa captain John McGinn said afterwards.
“When VAR was introduced, everyone wanted correct decisions. I know that’s the rule, but that’s so hard to take, especially because of the impact on us,” McGinn added.
Coach Emery added: “The TV pictures are clear. We have to accept that. It was a mistake, a big mistake.” When asked if he had spoken to the referee about it, Emery said: “Yes, I told him, but he knows it.” The coach did not want to get into further discussions about the VAR.
Shortly after the disallowed goal, Amad Diallo (76th) scored to finally dash the hopes of the visitors from Birmingham. Christian Eriksen (87th) scored with a converted penalty to make the final score.
Villa coach Emery had had enough at that point, and he acknowledged referee Bramall’s penalty whistle with sarcastic applause.
Last action in Villa Jersey?
For Martínez, the Rambo action could have been the last action in the Villa jersey.
In the last home game, Martinez had already left the field in tears, apparently saying goodbye to the fans.
Recently, there have been several rumors that he could leave the club after five years.