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Roberto De Zerbi gives surprising response to referee and VAR controversy in Tottenham defeat

Roberto De Zerbi held his cards close to his chest following Tottenham Hotspur's 1-0 defeat to Leeds United at Elland Road on Saturday afternoon.

Published: Saturday, 7 November 2026 at 3:06 PM
Roberto De Zerbi gives surprising response to referee and VAR controversy in Tottenham defeat
Key Things to Know
  • Roberto De Zerbi defended match officials following a controversial VAR decision against Mathys Tel.
  • Jayden Bogle avoided a red card after VAR Tony Harrington reviewed a studs-up challenge on Tel.
  • Mathys Tel initially continued playing after the first-half incident but was later forced off.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi downplayed a controversial VAR decision following his team's defeat at Elland Road on Saturday afternoon. The incident occurred late in the first half when Jayden Bogle caught Mathys Tel on the ankle with his studs, prompting a four-minute VAR review for a potential red card.

Referee John Brooks was not advised to review the pitchside monitor after VAR official Tony Harrington confirmed the on-field decision of no red card, deeming the challenge reckless rather than serious foul play. Despite Tel later having to be substituted due to the challenge, De Zerbi stated post-match that he retains full confidence in the officials and preferred to focus on Tottenham's performance.

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