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      ‘Do you know the rules?’ – Bruno Fernandes gives blunt Spanish interview after red card controversy in Man Utd clash

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      BRUNO FERNANDES brutally shut down a Spanish journalist who disagreed with Athletic Bilbao’s red card.Fernandes bluntly explained the rules of the game after guiding his side to a 3-0 win in their Europa League semi-final first leg in the Basque Country.Bruno Fernandes gave a frosty interview after a reporter quizzed him about Athletic Bilbao’s red cardCredit: X @elchiringuitotvAfter a lengthy VAR review, Bilbao centre-back Daniel Vivian was sent off and conceded a penalty for pulling down Rasmus Hojlund in the 35th minute.With United already 1-0 up thanks to Casemiro’s back-post header five minutes before, Fernandes converted the penalty to double their lead under huge pressure from the home support.Fans inside the San Mames were stunned when Vivian was given his marching orders by referee Espen Eskas, who claimed he failed to make an attempt for the ball when denying a clear goal scoring opportunity.This point appeared to be lost on the reporter when questioning Fernandes, who had no issue setting the record straight. READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe United playmaker questioned whether the reporter knew the rules of the game in a frosty exchange.The journalist began asking: “What did you think of the referee and whether he might have harmed Athletic Club?”Fernandes quizzed back in Spanish: “Do you think it wasn’t a penalty?”Before the reporter replied: “I think it could be a penalty but not a red card.”Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordBut that prompted Fernandes to hit back: “Why wasn’t it a red card? Do you know the rules?”If he tries to tackle with his feet it’s a yellow card. If he pushes him or does it with his hands, it has to be a red card.”Bruno Fernandes walks out for Manchester derby with first wheelchair mascot after he saw 7-year-old’s celebration onlineBilbao players were outraged that Alejandro Garnacho had not been pulled up for a handball in the lead up to Vivian’s foul. Striker Inaki Williams said: “There are some plays that raise doubts. “The play before the penalty comes from a handball by Garnacho, which the referee doesn’t see.”Fernandes insisted that he did not see the incident and pointed to a decision United should have got moments before.The 30-year-old star then compared chatter around refereeing between Spain and his native Portugal with England.He said: “I didn’t see it but I think there was also a penalty on Garnacho.”Talking about the referee here, I think it’s a custom in Spain and Portugal.”But I’m in England and my mind has changed a long time ago and I’m not going to do it. “The referees are like us, they make mistakes but I don’t think he made a mistake today.”The comment appeared to upset at least two of the hosts back in the studio.Fernandes made it 3-0 with a composed finish from Manuel Ugarte’s through ball on the brink of half-time.Read More on The SunThe Portugal international is approaching 40 goal contributions this term, having scored 19 goals and provided 18 assists.He already has the most assists in Europa League history, with 18 and his 27 goals are the third most scored in the competition. More

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      Evanilson’s ban OVERTURNED by FA after VAR check saw Bournemouth star handed red card for slipping into Man Utd ace

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      BOURNEMOUTH star Evanilson has had his ban overturned after he was sent off against Manchester United.The striker was sent off following a VAR review despite slipping before he collided with Noussair Mazraoui.Evanlison was sent off after colliding with Noussair MazraouiCredit: RexEvanlison made contact with the defender’s shin after losing control.But referee Peter Bankes still deemed it a red card offence, despite the tackle not being intentional or malicious.Bournemouth appealed the decision and have been successful, with Evanlison’s three-match ban overturned by the FA.However the Cherries will still feel aggrieved as they played the last 20 minutes against United with ten men, and Rasmus Hojlund scored a last-gasp equaliser for the visitors.READ MORE ON MAN UTDSunSport columnist and former Prem ref Mark Halsey argued Evanilson’s tackle did not warrant a red card, suggesting the VAR John Brooks should not have got involved.He said: “Ref Peter Bankes gave a yellow card to the Brazilian — and that was the correct call, as Evanilson’s slip turned his tackle into a reckless one. It was not serious foul play.”Why on earth did VAR John Brooks get involved?”It’s a very poor decision — and Bournemouth can feel aggrieved because it changed the game and dented their European hopes.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHowever not all fans felt the same way, and there was a mixed reaction to Evanilson’s ban being overturned.One fan said: “What a joke. Leg breaker challenge and its ok in the game. Wow!”Man Utd legend, 61, set to take charge of National League side as he says ‘it wouldn’t be beneath me’Another added: “??? That was a clear red.”But one fan agreed with the decision, saying: “Cost Bournemouth the win that.” More

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      Footie clash abandoned as club refuse to play after referee awards ‘worst penalty ever’ then ‘refuses to use VAR’

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      A MATCH had to be abandoned after the referee refused to use VAR and fuming players stormed off the pitch.The shocking incident occurred in a match between FK Sloboda Tuzla and HSK Posusje in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Premier League.Sloboda stormed off the pitch after Posusje were given a soft penaltyThe club’s president then appeared on the pitch to confront the refereeThey sarcastically applauded the official and stopped him entering the tunnelWith the score level at 1-1, bottom of the table side Sloboda had a man controversially sent off with ten minutes remaining. And almost straight after, referee Milos Gigovic gave Posusje a soft penalty following a minor coming together as two players contested a header.Fans slammed the decision as the “worst penalty call I have ever seen” and others labelled it “ridiculous”.But Sloboda expected the official to head to the VAR monitor, only for him to reportedly refuse.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe raging players complained wildly and then opted to walk off the pitch in protest.Four police officers swiftly surrounded the ref and his assistants as tempers flared.Sloboda president Azmir Husic suddenly appeared at the side of the pitch and had to be restrained from getting to Gigovic as the team refused to return to the field.The club chief was escorted away but the referee was then blocked from entering the dressing room.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSSeveral players and staff formed a bizarre guard of honour for Gigovic and sarcastically applauded him.It all led to the match being abandoned and the league is yet to confirm the result of the game.Incredible moment referee KOs losing coach with karate kick to the face after he tried to attack him with a bottle But rules state it could go down as a 3-0 win for Posusje and Sloboda, meanwhile, are at risk of a three to six-point deduction.Since the chaotic scenes, Bosnian refereeing chief Elmir Pilav has resigned. More

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      Evanilson should never have been sent off against Man Utd, the red card was just like Bruno Fernandes in Spurs clash

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      EVANILSON should never have received a red card against  Manchester United.The Bournemouth striker slipped when he challenged Moroccan  international Noussair Mazraoui in the 70th minute of Sunday’s 1-1 Premier League draw.Bournemouth frontman Evanilson slipped as he tackled Man Utd defender Noussair Mazraoui and was harshly given a red cardCredit: RexEx-Premier League referee Mark Halsey was astonished that VAR got involvedCredit: AFPUnited’s Bruno Fernandes had his dismissal for this challenge on James Maddison during a 3-0 defeat to Tottenham last September overturnedCredit: GettyRef Peter Bankes gave a yellow card to the Brazilian — and that was the correct call, as Evanilson’s slip turned his tackle into a reckless one. It was not serious foul play.Why on earth did VAR John Brooks get involved?It’s a very poor decision — and Bournemouth can feel aggrieved because it changed the game and dented their European hopes.They would have a good case to appeal the dismissal — and the three-match ban — as the incident was similar to Bruno Fernandes’ foul against Spurs last September.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe United midfielder’s sending-off in United’s 3-0 defeat was rescinded.Referee Chris Kavanagh showed Fernandes a straight red but the appeal commission ruled he had made an “obvious” error.WHAT WAS THE PREM EXPLANATION?HERE’S the statement Prem chiefs issued to explain Evanilson’s red card:Evanilson appeared stunned with his dismissalCredit: RexBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK “VAR recommended an on-field review for a possible red card for the challenge by Evanilson on Mazraoui – with the challenge deemed to be two-footed with both feet off the ground, endangering the safety of the opponent. Most read in Football”Upon review, the referee issued a red card to Evanilson for serious foul play.”Man Utd legend, 61, set to take charge of National League side as he says ‘it wouldn’t be beneath me’BOURNEMOUTH CHIEF’S ANGRY VERDICTCHERRIES’ boss Andoni Iraola appeared astounded by his frontman’s dismissal.Iraola told Sky Sports: “Common sense. Everyone who has played football understands. “He slips. He doesn’t catch him with the leg that goes high and the consequence is a red card. “It is another three games without playing. The repercussions for us are huge. Of course we are going to appeal. It is common sense. “In the first half Evanilson gets a kick in the chest by Casemiro. I don’t think you should have a red card for this. But the VAR cuts the worst angle, the worst frame.” More

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      Real Madrid issue statement after making ref break down in tears and ‘threat to BOYCOTT Copa del Rey final vs Barcelona’

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      REAL MADRID have issued a statement following a referee breaking down in tears ahead of the Copa del Rey final.Los Blancos are due to face rivals Barcelona at the Estadio de La Cartuja tonight.Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea broke down in tears during a press conferenceCredit: Copa Del ReyThe official was targeted by a video released by RMTVCredit: APThe video showcased his decisions against Real MadridCredit: ReutersThere were thoughts that Los Blancos could boycott the Copa del Rey finalCredit: GettyHowever, the capital-based club pulled out of pre-match activities after referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea’s press conference.The Spanish official broke down as he responded to a video by Real’s in-house TV channel RMTV.The video highlighted decisions that had gone against Real, which the club believe to have been incorrect.An emotional De Brugos said: “To see your son come from school crying because some kids have said his dad is a crook is very hard to take.READ MORE FOOTBALL”What I do is tell my son that his father is honourable. I make mistakes, like any athlete, but I am honourable.”I want my son to be proud of his father and of the refereeing profession.”Nobody has the right to submit my colleagues to what they are dealing with.”Reuters has claimed that Real views the ref’s comments as a “clear conflict of interest.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKA source told the outlet that the club believe that the refereeing team should be changed for the final.However, the Spanish FA rejected the request.You’re a football superfan if you can work out Brazil and Real Madrid legend’s son, 16, by his iconic playing style Real Madrid statementHere is the full statement released by Real Madrid…It read: “In light of the rumours that have arisen in the last few hours, Real Madrid C.F. communicates that our team never considered refusing to play in the final.”Our club understands that the unfortunate and inappropriate statements from the referees appointed for this match, made 24 hours before the final, cannot tarnish a sporting event of global importance that will be watched by hundreds of millions of people and also out of respect also for all the fans who are planning to travel to Seville, and for all those who are already in the Andalusian capital.”Real Madrid understands that football’s values must prevail, despite the hostility and animosity that has today once again been shown against our club, by the referees appointed for the final.”The actions of the club led many to believe that they may boycott the final entirely.However, Real later released a statement that insisted that it “never considered” withdrawing from the match.The club continued to argue that “football’s values must prevail, despite animosity that has once again been shown against our club”.The final VAR, Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes, joined De Brugos at his press conference.He insisted that referees will soon take action against the constant pressure they are under.He added: “In a few days, you all will see.”We are going to make history and we are not going to continue to put up with what we are putting up with.”A strike? You will have news from us soon.”Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has also weighed in on the referee debacle.The German insisted that officials, like players, need to be protected,He said: “For me, it’s only a sport. It’s only a game.Read More on The Sun”It’s only football.”It is our responsibility to protect not only the players but all the people involved in the game.”Hansi Flick claimed referees need to be protectedCredit: Getty More

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      Arsenal fans come up with wildest conspiracy theory yet as American VAR official makes big call in Crystal Palace clash

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      ARSENAL fans have leapt to the top of the table – for conspiracy theories!Gunners’ supporters noted an unusual twist as a huge VAR call in a 2-2 home draw with Crystal Palace helped put Liverpool on the brink of the Prem crown.Gabriel Martinelli had the simple task of putting the ball in the netCredit: RexJurrien Timber hooked the ball back in for Martinelli to volley inCredit: Sky SportsBut VAR ruled the ball had gone out before Timber crossed itCredit: Sky SportsBelow-par Arsenal were 2-1 up midway through the second period when Jurrien Timber hooked the ball over Eagles keeper Dean Henderson for Gabriel Martinelli to volley home from point-blank range.An assistant referee ruled it out for offside against Timber – but after a lengthy delay VAR decided that was the wrong call.Unfortunately for Arsenal, the video assistant also spotted that the ball had gone out of play just as the defender crossed it in, so the goal was disallowed after all.And having levelled brilliantly once, through Eberechi Eze, Palace went on to do it again, and arguably even better, through sub Jean Philippe Mateta’s long-range chip.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSIt means Liverpool need just a point at home to Tottenham on Sunday to seal the title in Arne Slot’s first season in charge.But if the Gunners were disappointing on the pitch, their fans dazzled online – with their VAR conspiracies.One pointed out that the video assistant was an American – former Major League Soccer referee Alex Chilowicz.The New Jersey official, 37, who is also known to be a musician, switched to officiating in England two years ago.Most read in FootballDefenders William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior show Arsenal’s dejectionCredit: ReutersBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKHe became one of the first non-Brits to take charge of an EFL match in December 2023.And he finally oversaw a game on Premier League turf in August 2024, as Brighton took on Sussex rivals Crawley in the EFL Cup.Viktor Gyokeres responds as he is asked if he ‘likes London’ amid Arsenal transfer linksBut on Wednesday night he found himself under a far more intense microscope in a cagey contest refereed by Michael Salisbury.One fan described Chilowicz and Salisbury as a pair of “unknowns”.The supporter then added to his wacky thinking – with a surprise question.He posted on X: “I find it hilarious that the referee and VAR tonight for #Arsenal game are unknowns. None of the usual clowns. “Is it because @FA_PGMOL  are all with the Liverpool players ready to celebrate their title win if we lost tonight?”Another supporter was more blunt with his observation.He wrote: “VAR always works correctly when it’s against Arsenal lol.”A third claimed: “Now that the league is decided, they take their time on VAR calls involving Arsenal.”And a fourth hinted that, apart from terrible luck with injuries to strikers, the Gunners have had equally miserable misfortune up front – albeit off the pitch.With an apparent touch of suspicion, he lamented: “So many goals disallowed from VAR for Arsenal this year.”Other fans blasted the “ridiculous” length of time waiting for VAR to deliver a verdict.But at least one viewer suggested the incident was a VICTORY for the technology.He wrote: “You have to give the Premier League credit.”That Timber goal was inconclusive 3 months ago… VAR is awful but getting the tech in place to see an out ball is super stuff… Nobody hates VAR more than me, but credit where it’s due.”  Meanwhile, Prem chiefs acted to clear up debate over the disallowed goal with an explanation on social media.Read More on The SunThey posted: “VAR checked the referee’s call of no goal for Arsenal for offside against Timber – and established that he was in an onside position in the build-up. “However, the VAR also determined that the ball had gone out of play in the build-up and the goal should be ruled out.”  Boss Mikel Arteta was frustrated by Arsenal’s two dropped pointsCredit: Getty More

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      Premier League release statement after Man City crowd rage at controversial VAR replay for penalty as Guardiola loses it

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      MANCHESTER CITY fans and Pep Guardiola were left fuming after a replay of a controversial penalty decision was shown on the big screen at the Etihad.City took an early lead against Aston Villa via Bernardo Silva but then just minutes later, the visitors wanted a spot-kick.Jacob Ramsey won a penalty after being tripped by Ruben DiasCredit: GettyReferee Craig Pawson overturned his decision after watching a replay pitchsideCredit: GettyDias was adamant he got a piece of the ball and pulled out the challengeCredit: GettyThe centre-back pointed to the big screen as a different angle was shown to fans in the groundJacob Ramsey was knocked to the deck after a tangle with Ruben Dias in the penalty area.But the coming together was waved away by referee Craig Pawson.VAR reviewed the incident and sent the official to the pitchside monitor.Pawson eventually decided to overturn his decision and give a penalty after being shown a replay picked up by a camera behind Ramsey.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe foul was then shown on the big screen at the Etihad Stadium but a different angle was reportedly used.A view from behind the City goal appeared to be selected instead and that angle showed Dias getting a toe on the ball rather than clipping Ramsey’s heels.It enraged the home support who loudly booed and whistled as Dias himself pointed towards the big screen in anger. Guardiola was equally incensed and he protested wildly in his technical area.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe City boss was gesturing that Dias had pulled out of the challenge and got a piece of the ball.Guardiola was booked for his antics – his fourth this season – but Marcus Rashford kept his cool to score the penalty to level things at 1-1.Maya Jama reveals item she’s banned from the bedroom amid romance with Man City star Ruben DiasCity fans reacted: “VAR failing to show the angle where Dias gets the ball in order to change the referee’s mind and give a penalty. It’s an absolute farce.”Another added: “That isn’t a penalty, VAR does not show the angle where Ruben touched the ball.”A third reacted: “Yet again VAR don’t show best angle until after referee has decided.”But pundit Roy Keane disagreed with supporters and said Dias DID foul Ramsey.The Premier League later released a statement which read: “VAR checked the referee’s call of no penalty to Aston Villa for a challenge by Dias on Ramsey – and deemed there was a clear trip and recommended an on-field review.”The referee overturned the original decision and awarded a penalty to Aston Villa.”Man City’s anger was somewhat relieved by a late winner from Matheus Nunes as they won 2-1. ‘It wasn’t a trip’ – Mark Halsey’s viewBy Mark HalseyFORMER Premier League referee Mark Halsey has given his verdict on the penalty call…”I would not have given a penalty in real time. It was normal contact and a coming together between two players.”Pawson was in a great position and also did not see it as a foul. Dias was trying to get out of the way and Ramsey has been clever in winning the pen.”The next question is why has VAR got involved? It wasn’t a clear and obvious error. It’s subjective.”The Prem match centre posted on X: “VAR checked the referee’s call of no penalty to Aston Villa for a challenge by Dias on Ramsey – and deemed there was a clear trip and recommended an on-field review. The referee overturned the original decision and awarded a penalty.”But Halsey added: “It wasn’t a trip. Pawson should have been stronger when he was sent to the monitor and stuck to his original decision.”On Guardiola’s reaction, Halsey said: “Guardiola was frustrated and rightly so but he cannot act like that on the touchline. He needs to set an example.”Pep Guardiola was left fuming on the touchlineCredit: ReutersGuardiola picked up a booking for his protestsCredit: AFP More

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      Fire alarm at Stockley Park sees VAR SCRAPPED in middle of Tottenham vs Nottingham Forest match as statement released

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      VAR was temporarily axed during Tottenham’s clash with Nottingham Forest after a fire alarm at Stockley Park.Referee John Brooks and assistant Dan Robathan were forced to flee the west London officials hub at half-time.VAR was axed mid-game due to a fire alarm at Stockley ParkCredit: ReutersForest were leading Spurs 2-0 when VAR went downCredit: GettyNuno Espirito Santo’s side went in at the break 2-0 up after goals by Elliot Anderson and Chris Wood.And by the time the second 45 minutes begun, the refs were still unable to return to the building in West London.A brief Premier League statement confirmed the news, which read: “The match will be operating without VAR until further notice due to a fire alarm at the VAR Hub at Stockley Park.”Technology was out of use for around eight minutes in second-half before things returned to normal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA second Prem tweet said: “VAR is now back up and running”.The system was fortunately not called upon while it was out of action.But fans found the situation hilarious, with one saying: “We had freedom for about one minute.”Another added: “Whoever set the fire alarm off deserves a raise.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSA third laughed: “Quick, someone go break the emergency glass again.”By the time of the fire alarm, VAR’s new semi-automated offside technology had already been used at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.Ange Postecoglou says he will be around ‘for a little bit longer’ after Tottenham victory over Eintracht Frankfurt Wood had headed the ball into the back of the net but the goal was chalked off as the Forest striker went too early.Yet it took him just seven minutes to score a goal that did stand after heading home an Anthony Elanga cross.Tottenham improved after the break, and Richarlison netted a late goal. But Spurs couldn’t find another and Forest won 2-1 to boost their Champions League qualification hopes. More