VAR once again becomes subject of controversy in Arsenal's win over West Ham United

"Everybody involved in football lost a little bit of perception of what is or is not a foul — that's why we are upset," West Ham United manager Nuno Espirito Santo told Carrie Brown of beIN SPORTS in a postgame interview.

The win has Arsenal even closer to clinching its first English Premier League title since the 2003-04 season. Following the win, the Gunners (24-7-5, 79 points) are first in the group ahead of Manchester City (22-8-5, 74 points). Three matches remain for Manchester City, meaning it's even more unlikely it will catch its rivals. 

West Ham United (9-9-18, 36 points) is well out of contention. It's now 18th in the table. The VAR controversy, though, could overshadow Arsenal's triumph. It's another example of why many fans think the technology is ruining matches. 

Why is VAR controversial? 

VAR can influence the outcome of games in international and club play, and it doesn't always make the right call. During a 2023 match between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur, VAR ruled that former Liverpool forward Luis Diaz's goal shouldn't have counted because he scored from an offside position, even though the same call was made on the field. 

Before the crew realized they'd made the wrong call and the goal should've counted, it was too late. Arsenal lost that match 1-0. 

Now, the call in Sunday's match isn't as terrible, but it isn't a great look for VAR heading into the FIFA World Cup (scheduled for June 11-July 19 in the United States). It will be used during the 104-match tournament. 

FIFA better hope there are no VAR hiccups during the World Cup. A questionable call could spark even more outrage.