JURGEN KLOPP DISCUSSES INFAMOUS RODRI HANDBALL AGAINST EVERTON

A REFLECTION BY JURGEN KLOPP ON THE CONTROVERSIAL RODRI HANDBALL INCIDENT
One of the more controversial incidents from Liverpool’s 2021–2022 season—a season in which the team just missed out on an unprecedented quadruple—was revisited by Jurgen Klopp. Amidst their valiant efforts, Klopp and the Liverpool supporters are still deeply affected by a specific incident involving Rodri of Manchester City and an alleged handball. The notorious incident happened at Goodison Park and will always be etched in the history of Premier League drama.

SEASON OF LIVERPOOL’S NEAR MISSES
The 2021–2022 season for Liverpool was almost entirely cinematic. The Premier League, the Champions League, the domestic cups, and both were major trophies that the Reds were vying for. Their journey culminated in a league title match that lasted until the very last day, characterised by unwavering pursuit and spectacular football.
But the season ended with a mixture of pain and appreciation. Liverpool won the domestic cups, but they lost to Real Madrid in the Champions League final. Manchester City defeated Aston Villa in the Premier League final, overcoming a late challenge to win.

A SNAP SHOT IN GOODISON PARK
The turning point occurred at Goodison Park on a chilly February evening. The stakes were very high, and the date was February 26, 2022. In a close race for the title, Liverpool was only three points behind their rivals. Everton, meanwhile, was battling their own problems and clinging to the hope of staying in the league.

The actual game was fiercely contested, with Everton, led by Frank Lampard, demonstrating tenacity. After Phil Foden gave City the lead in the 82nd minute and broke the deadlock, the story of the game took a dramatic turn. However, the real dispute started a few seconds later.

REIGNS OF CONTROVERSY: RODRI’S HANDBALL INCIDENT
Rodri was in the middle of a storm when Everton started to press for an equaliser. The Spanish midfield player looked to handle the ball in the penalty area, which would have allowed Everton to equalise from the penalty spot. Strong appeals followed by a VAR review did not result in the penalty being imposed.

Both viewers and commentators were perplexed by the choice. “It is a penalty, no doubt,” said former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher in response to the incident. I believe the VAR took too long inspecting it. Rodri is shielding Paul Tierney from view as he looks through the players, preventing him from seeing the incident. “I think this should have been a VAR decision,” he continued.

This incident would go on to become a major talking point as Manchester City finished the season with 93 points, just 92 points behind Liverpool.

KLOPP EXPLAINS
Known for his openness, Jurgen Klopp looked back on the incident with evident frustration, calling it “crazy.” His statement, “That situation is crazy to me,” captures the shock and anguish of the situation and may have had a significant influence on the outcome of the race for the title.

Football’s use of VAR and its role are still being discussed as Klopp considers these crucial moments. In addition to affecting the conclusion of a Premier League season, the Rodri handball incident spurred discussions about fairness and the use of technology in sports.

Years to come, people will discuss Liverpool’s almost flawless season and the contentious choices that ultimately led to its demise, acting as a constant reminder of how narrow the margins can be in the world of football.