English clubs have unanimously agreed to introduce semi-automated offside technology starting next season. They will use the same software as UEFA in the Champions League.
The 2023-2024 season has not been the best or easiest for English referees. On more than one occasion, PGMOL, the top refereeing body in English soccer, has had to provide explanations for controversial plays or errors made by officials. Clubs and coaches have expressed their dissatisfaction multiple times throughout the season. That’s why authorities in the British Isles have decided to take action.
The Premier League, in a statement, announced that “clubs have unanimously approved the introduction of semi-automated offside technology starting next season.” This decision was made at today’s Premier League shareholders’ meeting. Another tool to help reduce errors that still occur despite the use of VAR in England’s top division.
This system, which “will provide faster placement of the virtual offside line and high-quality graphics to ensure a better broadcast and in-stadium experience,” is the same one used by UEFA in the Champions League. Semi-automated offside technology, recently used in the Copa del Rey final between Athletic and Mallorca, has arrived in soccer to stay.
A particularly memorable incident in the Premier League was the (incorrectly) disallowed goal for Luis Díaz at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium earlier this season, due to a non-existent offside call against the Colombian striker, which ultimately cost Jürgen Klopp’s team the loss against the London side. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also exploded in the press room at St. James’ Park after a controversial refereeing performance in the Gunners’ defeat at Newcastle.
Image: As
