England manager Thomas Tuchel has expressed concern over the decision to lift the suspension of United States forward Folarin Balogun, arguing that football authorities must apply disciplinary rules consistently.
Speaking to reporters after their win over Mexico, Tuchel said he found it difficult to understand how a decision made during a match could later be reversed after video review had already been used.
“To be clear, it was not a red card. VAR got involved. The decision is made,” Tuchel said.
Balogun had initially faced suspension following an incident that resulted in disciplinary action during the USA’s 2-0 Round of 32 victory against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
However, the suspension was later overturned after a review, allowing the striker to remain available for selection in USA’s round of 16 match against Belgium.
Tuchel questioned the process behind the decision, asking who had the authority to reverse it and on what basis.
According to him, the situation raises concerns about consistency and fairness in football officiating.
“Who overturns this decision and when and on what grounds? It’s strange for me. We want consistency,” he said.
The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich coach pointed to other controversial decisions involving players from England and France.
He referenced midfielder Declan Rice and French winger Michael Olise, suggesting that if one disciplinary ruling can be reconsidered, then other disputed yellow cards should also be reviewed.
“I think it is not a yellow card, Declan Rice. Does France get the yellow card back for Michael Olise, which was not a yellow card?” Tuchel asked.
He further questioned where the line should be drawn, mentioning England defender Jarell Quansah and whether teams should begin appealing every controversial decision.
In a lighter moment, Tuchel joked about England captain Harry Kane seeking help from Donald Trump, saying, “Should Harry Kane ask President Trump? Maybe!”
The comments come amid growing debate over the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system and post-match disciplinary reviews.
While VAR was introduced to reduce officiating errors, controversies continue over how decisions are interpreted and whether subsequent reviews undermine on-field rulings.
