Chelsea's head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, believes the introduction of VAR has made it more difficult for coaches to show their attacking character in games. Pochettino, who has been known throughout his career for his physicality against the style of play, said there was no point in practicing Xi "dark tricks" in training now because technology was used to monitor foul play. He expressed concern about the impact of VAR on player development and discipline. Pochettino responded to questions about his team's demeanor and whether he was able to self-regulate after a disappointing game.
He explained that different players have different personalities, but in the past, if the referee did not look in that direction, the players would engage in unconscious intense behavior during the game that would go unnoticed. And now, every action is scrutinized by the VAR and players risk being red carded for such behaviour. Chelsea have faced disciplinary issues this season, with the most yellow cards and two red cards in the Premier League. Pochettino believes disappointment and immaturity are among the causes of the team's discipline problems.
He also pointed to the team's lack of experience in the Premier League as another obstacle. In conclusion, Pochettino is concerned that VAR has changed the way players behave in the game and affected their development. He believes that the risk of more scrutiny and penalties for actions makes it difficult for coaches to show offensiveness. Chelsea's disciplinary problems this season reflect that concern.