Emery rages at VAR after Anderson avoids red card in Europa League semi

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has criticized Video Assistant Referee officials after Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson was not sent off during their Europa League semi-final first leg.

Watch the highlights:

Emery described the decision as a "huge mistake" and expressed his frustration after the incident involving Anderson. The Villa boss was left particularly aggrieved by the officials' failure to intervene when, in his view, a sending off should have followed.

Speaking about the incident, Emery said the situation was "so, so bad" and questioned where the VAR officials were when the incident occurred. His strong criticism highlights the ongoing debate around officiating standards in European competition.

The first leg between the two Premier League clubs took place on April 30, 2026, with Emery's post-match comments generating significant attention given the high-stakes nature of the tie. Villa will now prepare for the second leg as they look to overturn any deficit and reach the final.

Forest will be relieved that Anderson escaped punishment, as a sending off could have significantly impacted their chances of reaching the Europa League final.