"It Doesn’t work" – Jamie Redknapp Urges Offside Rule Change After VAR Cancels Maguire’s Goal vs Chelsea
Jamie Redknapp believes the offside rule needs to change after Harry Maguire’s goal against Chelsea was ruled out by VAR for a marginal shoulder offside.
Jamie Redknapp has urged football lawmakers to rethink the offside rule after Manchester United’s Harry Maguire saw a crucial goal chalked off by VAR during their clash with Chelsea.
The dramatic moment came in the first half at Stamford Bridge, when Maguire thought he had given United the lead. The centre-back latched onto a perfect cross from Bruno Fernandes and sent a powerful volley past Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. United players began celebrating, but the joy was short-lived.
VAR quickly intervened, checking whether Maguire was offside when the ball was played. The Premier League’s Match Centre later explained on X (formerly Twitter): “VAR checked the referee’s call of goal – and determined that Maguire was in an offside position and recommended that the goal was disallowed.”
The decision was a tough blow for United, who are already enduring a frustrating season and looking to gain some momentum ahead of their Europa League final on May 21.
Sky Sports pundit Roy Keane admitted it was difficult to accept. “He’s trying, but you have to give Chelsea some credit. They’ve held the line well – very brave,” Keane said during the half-time analysis. “Brilliant ball, absolutely amazing finish, like a top striker. Very cruel. Look how tight that is. Tough to take.”
Presenter David Jones pointed out how fine the margins were: “Bit of shoulder. That’s all it takes these days. Offside is offside.”
But it was Jamie Redknapp who called for change. While agreeing with the technical accuracy of the decision, the former England midfielder believes the current interpretation of the rule doesn’t favor attacking players.
“Offside by the shoulder – it’s football,” Redknapp said. “I’d like to see that rule changed one day. Maybe make it about the feet or something else. It doesn’t really work in the favour of the forwards because you’re always trying to lean forward, so your shoulder is naturally going to be offside. The defender is usually going the other way. I’d like to see that changed.”
