As we approach the end of the 2023/24 Premier League season, VAR continues to divide fans around the world. The technology was pulled into play during Manchester United’s latest clash with Burnley, which awarded a penalty to the relegation-threatened Clarets after André Onana clattered Zeki Amdouni in the face while attempting to clear the ball.
A number of decisions have split fans and professionals this season, so it continues to beg the question — how would the current table look if VAR was taken out of the picture?
We’ve put together the Premier League standings without the infuence of VAR this term, taking into account any results where goals were either awarded or chalked off as a result of the technology, including via penalties. Here’s where United would currently sit compared to their closest rivals.
1. Premier League without VAR
Where Arsenal, Chelsea, Spurs and their Premier League rivals would sit in the league if VAR wasn't used
2. Sheffield United
Points without VAR: 13 (Difference -3)
3. Luton Town
Points without VAR: 25 (Difference -1)
4. Burnley
Points without VAR: 26 (Difference +2)