FIFA are exploring the possibility of getting rid of linesmen and other officials on match day and bizarrely replacing them with robots.
It’s been revealed a specific department has been created by FIFA to explore the impact technology could have on football.
If the findings rule in favour of the technology then it’s possible that the infamous offside flag could become a thing of the past.
FIFA already have a department set up researching into these exact areas.
Will they replace referee assistants completely with cameras and computers ruling offsides and throw-ins? It could happen one day.
We could be a few years away from seeing this technology included in the game.
Despite this, the thought of robots replacing match officials will come as a shock following the controversy VAR is still often seeped in.
Many football fans are still VAR sceptics so the ambition for more technology may need to be calmed by the bigwigs.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino is a huge VAR advocate so the ambition for more technology doesn’t seem to be ending any time soon.
Premier League VAR chief Neil Swarbrick has defended VAR and denied that control is being taken away from referees during matches.
He also stated that the concerns of VAR ruining celebrations due to fans being unaware if a goal will inevitably stand after it’s scored.
It’s because people are not used to it yet. Sometimes it provides even more entertainment.
We’re three weeks into VAR’s inaugural Premier League season and it’s been a huge talking point throughout.
Manchester City have felt the consequences in two games so far, with Raheem Sterling being ruled offside by his arm.
They were also denied two points against Tottenham Hotspur following a VAR review which judged Aymeric Laporte’s involvement in Gabriel Jesus’ potential winner as handball.
Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus appeals to the match referee Michael Oliver after his goal is ruled out by VAR during the Premier League match at The Etihad Stadium, Manchester.
Fans within stadiums during games have voiced concerns at how poorly the information is presented to the crowd.
Whereas TV viewers also bemoan the way it can grind games to a halt.
Or in the case of Liverpool vs Norwich on the opening evening, halt the start of a half due to a technical issue.
Regardless of the public opinion, technology seems to be entering the game at a rapid pace.
Furthermore, the debate surrounding it will surely rage on.
What do you think about technology taking a prominent role in football? Sound off in the comments below.
