In an unexpected development, FIFA has raised serious concerns over the performance of PGMOL official Howard Webb during the contentious Bournemouth vs Arsenal match. Webb, a prominent referee in English football, has come under intense scrutiny for his involvement in a key decision that led to William Saliba’s red card, which many have deemed a significant mistake.
The decision, which dramatically shifted the game’s momentum, has been widely criticized as a major error. Insiders have described FIFA’s internal communication about the incident as “regrettable,” with FIFA questioning Webb’s focus and ability to make swift, accurate decisions during the match.
Sources claim FIFA officials remarked, “He wasn’t paying attention to the game at that moment and had to make a quick judgment,” highlighting the referee’s lack of concentration at a crucial juncture.
Saliba’s red card, which was originally a yellow for a foul on Evanilson, was upgraded after Webb, monitoring the game as the VAR official, called for an on-field review.
His intervention led to Saliba’s dismissal, a decision that angered Arsenal players, staff, and fans. Many believe this unjust decision directly influenced the outcome, as Arsenal struggled with only ten men for the remainder of the match.
In response to the incident, FIFA has swiftly suspended Webb from refereeing duties pending further investigation. There is increasing speculation that this suspension could become permanent, which would mark a dramatic end to the career of one of England’s most prominent referees.
The situation has ignited a broader debate about the use of VAR and the responsibility of referees to maintain the integrity of the sport. Critics have argued that Webb’s poor judgment spoiled what should have been an exciting and important Premier League match. Arsenal supporters, in particular, have expressed their outrage, believing Saliba’s wrongful dismissal cost their team the game.
Although PGMOL has yet to issue an official statement regarding Webb’s suspension, many in the football community view the action as a necessary move to improve officiating standards and prevent similar errors in the future.
As this controversy unfolds, it remains uncertain whether Webb will return to his duties or if FIFA’s suspension will mark the end of his officiating career, sending ripples through the football world.
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