U. Emery had many complaints about VAR technology after the defeat.

2026-05-01 10:13 © Elvio Žaldario

Birmingham's Aston Villa lost 0:1 to Nottingham Forest in their first UEFA Europa League match.

After the match, head coach Unai Emery criticized the VAR technology:

"The VAR system is so, so bad. It was a clear red card, I don't understand why VAR doesn't call the referee, because everything is so clear.

This is a huge mistake. VAR is responsible for that."

"The referee was fantastic – fantastic job, 10 out of 10 and I appreciate how he worked throughout the match.

He could have broken his ankle. Where is VAR? It's your responsibility, we are professionals.

It was so clear to everyone. He could have broken his ankle. It's unfair."

Unai Emery was very angry about the incident where Forest defender Elliot Anderson was not shown a red card.

The return match will take place next Thursday in Birmingham.