Harry Maguire’s X-rated message to Kai Havertz after diving for penalty vs Manchester United

Harry Maguire was in disbelief when Arsenal forward Kai Havertz conned referee Andy Madley into awarding a penalty against Manchester United in the FA Cup on Sunday.

Ruben Amorim’s side produced a strong performance away at the Emirates Stadium and ended up winning the clash on penalties.

The Reds took the lead early in the second half through Bruno Fernandes after a great move from the visitors.

Shortly afterwards, referee Andy Madley sent off Diogo Dalot for a second bookable offence to put United down to 10 men.

It was a silly decision from the defender, despite not really touching the player, especially since Madley had been trigger happy with his cards all game.

The referee then provided Arsenal with a perfect chance to score after awarded the most ridiculous penalty you would have seen in a while.

Kai Havertz flopped inside the box after minimal contact from Harry Maguire and conned the referee into giving the spot kick.

United fans felt like justice was served when Altay Bayindir saved Martin Odegaard’s effort from 12 yards.

Maguire’s X-rated message to Havertz after Arsenal dive

Maguire was in absolute disbelief when Madley pointed to the spot and ended up being booked for his reaction.

The United defender made sure to giver Havertz a few words in his ear after the dive, with the 31-year-old saying to the German international: “You cheating scumbag”.

Maguire was a rock for United throughout the game and the incident only furthered the complaints surrounding the level of officiating at the top level in English football.

No one will be complaining about his message to Havertz, who should have focused more on trying to score from a couple yards out than diving around inside the area.

Why VAR was not in use for Arsenal vs United

Officiating in the Premier League has been poor enough this season but there was no VAR to even help save the referee from his mistakes tonight.

It was explained ahead of the game that VAR would only be in use in the fifth-round onwards in the FA Cup despite various games being in Premier League stadiums with the technology available.

“Video Assistant Referees (VAR) will only be used in the 2024-25 Emirates FA Cup from the Fifth Round onwards,” a statement on the FA’s website read.

“It has been agreed that VAR will be utilised for every match in the Fifth Round of the competition through to the Final at Wembley Stadium, and will not be in operation for the Third and Fourth Rounds.

“VAR has only been used in the Emirates FA Cup previously for matches at Wembley Stadium and at Premier League grounds due to the infrastructure, workforce and costs that are required for its operation. 

Read More: Player ratings for Arsenal vs Manchester United in the FA Cup

“This decision ensures that there is a consistent refereeing approach for all clubs taking part in the same stage of the competition.”

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