Kieran McKenna talks VAR delays and Kevin De Bruyne’s legacy ahead of Chelsea’s next fixture

Blues manager Kieran McKenna has addressed the ongoing issues with VAR decision delays but expressed optimism about the upcoming introduction of semi-automated offsides, which he believes will improve the process.

After Tottenham's 1-0 defeat to Chelsea on Thursday, Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou voiced his frustration with the 12-minute delay caused by a VAR review on Pape Sarr’s potential goal. Postecoglou described the delay as "killing the game." McKenna was asked about his thoughts on the delay and whether he sympathized with Postecoglou.

“It’s been sort of a journey for us as a club this year getting used to it again,” McKenna explained. “I’ve had it before as a coach at [Manchester] United, but not for the last couple of years. I don’t naturally enjoy it because I really, really enjoy it when you score a goal and you know it’s 100 percent a goal.”

He added, “That's probably my biggest feeling on it is that my main reaction when we score usually is to go and check the monitor or go and check with the assistants whether there is going to be anything that possibly could be flagged.”

Despite his frustrations, McKenna acknowledged that VAR has led to increased accuracy in decision-making, with fewer mistakes being made. “Other than that, it has brought some benefits and greater accuracy to the decision-making. Statistically, fewer mistakes where mistakes get corrected so, of course, there’s been some benefits to it."

However, the time taken for decisions remains a problem, with McKenna looking forward to the new semi-automated offside technology. “The time is still an issue, and I think the semi-automated offsides will be a step forward, and I think that would be a good thing.”

Shifting focus, McKenna was also asked to reflect on Kevin de Bruyne's imminent departure from Manchester City after an incredible 10 years with the club. De Bruyne, the Belgian international, has won 16 major trophies with City during his tenure.

“He's been incredible,” McKenna said. “He’s certainly one of the greatest to grace the league. I’ve faced him quite a few times as a coach with United, and always at that time, the biggest part of the game plan was how to possibly stop him, and he's shown fantastic quality for a lot of years.”

McKenna also praised the success de Bruyne has achieved with Manchester City and shared his respect for the midfielder’s decision. “They’ve had some great times there, and if you decide it’s the right time, then it’s the right time, and I’m sure all the Man City fans and everyone who really enjoys the Premier League will wish him well."

When asked where de Bruyne ranks among Premier League greats, McKenna joked, “These are questions for the dressing room! It would be a good debate amongst the boys, so I’ll drop that one out to them and I’ll get back to you.”