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Mike Dean Reflects on Refereeing Career and the Role of VAR

By suresixstraightwin suresixstraightwin 0

Mike Dean, one of the most recognizable referees in Premier League history, has shared insights into the highs and lows of his career, his views on VAR, and the evolving role of technology in football. Speaking to GOAL USA for the Wednesday Convo, Dean revealed his experiences as a referee, his thoughts on retirement, and how technology has changed the game.

The Challenges of Refereeing

During his 30 years in officiating, including over 20 years in the Premier League, Dean faced significant challenges both on and off the pitch.

Dean has been harassed on the streets and seen his daughter receive death threats on social media.

His colleagues have faced abuse at airports, and he admits to avoiding public outings with his family in the U.K.

Despite these difficulties, Dean has no regrets.

> “I enjoyed refereeing, believe it or not. People think it’s the worst job, but it’s not. It’s just a good job. And I just loved it,” Dean said.

Life After Retirement

Since retiring in 2022, Dean has stepped away from the pressures of refereeing. Now working as a pundit for Sky Sports, he reflects on his career without missing the job.

> “I don’t miss it – not anymore, at least,” he admitted.

Dean retired as VAR was becoming an integral part of football, a development he found difficult to embrace.

Dean’s Criticism of VAR

Dean has been vocal about his dislike for VAR, both during his refereeing career and now as a pundit.

> “I’ve got someone in my ear telling me I’ve made a mistake, which I found hard. I didn’t like it, and everyone knew. I couldn’t get my head around it,” Dean said.

He also pointed out how technology has changed refereeing, causing officials to hesitate and rely on VAR for major decisions.

> “When I watch from home, I see officials not enjoying the game, hoping technology will bail them out,” Dean added.

The Future of Technology in Football

Dean acknowledges that VAR and other technologies, such as automated offsides, are here to stay.

Automated offside technology is set to debut in the Premier League after successful trials in the Champions League.

FIFA and UEFA will likely continue to introduce new innovations, further altering the role of referees.

Dean questions whether assistant referees will even be necessary in the future, as technology increasingly takes over their responsibilities.

Mike Dean’s reflections offer a candid look at the pressures of refereeing and the impact of technology on football. While he cherishes his career, he remains critical of VAR’s influence and the challenges it brings to officials. As technology continues to evolve, Dean’s perspective highlights the need for balance between human judgment and digital precision in the beautiful game.

Key Takeaways

Dean faced abuse and challenges as a referee but loved his job.

He dislikes VAR, citing its impact on referees’ confidence.

Technological advancements like automated offsides are shaping football’s future.

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