Arbeloa Slams VAR Over Unawarded Mbappe Penalty: 'Clear Here and Even on the Moon'
T.E (Elbotola)
10 April 2026at22:18
Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa has criticized refereeing decisions after a penalty was not awarded to Kylian Mbappé during the team's 1-1 draw against Girona in La Liga.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Arbeloa stated, "The foul on Mbappé was a clear penalty, here and even on the moon. It's another incident added to previous ones, but this is our reality; it's always the same scenario."
He continued, "I don't understand how VAR didn't intervene. It intervenes when it suits them, and when it doesn't, it doesn't. You know my opinion, and the facts continue to confirm it."
Arbeloa concluded his remarks by saying, "It was a completely clear incident. A foul was called on Mbappé that was far less significant than this situation. It's just another incident, as usual."
What happened regarding Kylian Mbappé and VAR?
Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa criticized VAR after Kylian Mbappé was not awarded a penalty during the team's 1-1 draw against Girona. Arbeloa described the foul as "clear" and expressed his frustration with the non-intervention of the video assistant referee.
Why did Álvaro Arbeloa criticize VAR's decision?
Álvaro Arbeloa criticized VAR's decision because he believes the foul on Mbappé was unequivocally a penalty, stating it was "clear here and even on the moon." He also questioned VAR's inconsistent application, suggesting it intervenes only when it suits certain outcomes, adding to previous incidents.
How might this VAR controversy affect future matches?
This VAR controversy might heighten scrutiny on future refereeing decisions involving Real Madrid and other top teams in La Liga. Arbeloa's public comments could pressure officials to ensure more consistent application of VAR protocols, potentially influencing how similar incidents are reviewed in upcoming games.
