Fans of Everton have been reacting on social media to Carlo Ancelotti’s comments following his sending off after the Toffees’ 1-1 draw with Manchester United on Sunday.
Ancelotti has worked wonders with Everton since his arrival in December, winning five, drawing three and losing two of his 10 Premier League games in charge, steering the club away from the relegation zone and safely into mid-table.
However, the Italian will learn on Wednesday whether or not he will be punished by the FA after being sent off following his side’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United.
The 60-year-old approached referee Chris Kavanagh following the full-time whistle after Dominic Calvert-Lewin had a late goal ruled out by VAR, due to Gylfi Sigurdsson lying in an offside position in front of United goalkeeper David de Gea.
After the match, Ancelotti stated: “I asked for an explanation [on the VAR call] after the game. There was a misunderstanding and I was sent off. I spoke to the referee after the game, but that will remain private. I didn’t disrespect him. We will see. It was a difficult decision.”
In reaction to their manager’s comments, Everton fans have taken to Twitter, with many stating their belief that the goal should have stood, while others simply offered their support to Ancelotti.
? | @MrAncelotti: "I asked for an explanation [on the VAR call] after the game. There was a misunderstanding and I was sent off. I spoke to the referee after the game, but that will remain private. I didn't disrespect the him. We will see. It was a difficult decision." #EVEMUN pic.twitter.com/sQdrTGXaNY
— Everton (@Everton) March 1, 2020
I’ve seen other managers acting far more aggressively and not even get a yellow. But hey ho! We know why.
— It’s me, MJD (@AtLast04777800) March 1, 2020
Love carlo for this
— Ryan (@Ryxn1878) March 1, 2020
What happened today was a disgrace
— Daniel ????? (@dan___mendes) March 1, 2020
Good for you Mr Ancelotti! Shambles of a referee shambles VAR!
— Oschie1 (@oschie1) March 1, 2020
Well done Carlo.
— Jagsmol (@lynnepark_lynne) March 1, 2020
Manchester ref sending off Everton manager pic.twitter.com/bbAxsStX3n
— ? carlo fantastico ??? (@_jennifer1878) March 1, 2020
What do we think?
Although it appeared to be a relatively straightforward decision, as Sigurdsson was clearly in an offside position and was in De Gea’s line of sight, Ancelotti’s annoyance remains understandable.
The Icelandic midfielder made no attempt to play the ball and neither he nor his team were in any way benefiting from his position on the pitch.