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FIFA’s Video Assistant Referee system debuted at the FIFA Club World Cup to mixed reviews, but that hasn’t stopped Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho from issuing a strong plea to move forward with the technology.
Speaking with FIFA.com ahead of The Best FIFA Football Awards, Mourinho was asked for his view on the system.
“We all need it,” said Mourinho. “Professionals can’t lose or win matches and titles because of a refusal of this evolution. Sponsors, owners and investors must feel that technology is there. Also, referees especially need and deserve protection. They need technology to help them, protect them and to support them.”
Mourinho was also asked for his opinion on the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 48 teams, another advancement he supports.
“I’m totally in favor. As a club manager, if the expansion meant more games, less holidays and less preseason for players, I would say no. But it’s important for critics to analyze and understand that expansion doesn’t mean more matches. Players are protected and clubs are protected in this way. I prefer groups of three. Two matches and then through to the knock-out stages or go home.
"This way, the two group matches are crucial, then the knock-out stage is next which brings even more emotion. Teams with less potential and experience will probably play two matches and go home. But they would do so having improved and gained experience on the pitch, which would be added to the economic rewards of appearing at the finals - including further investment in their footballing infrastructure.”
Like FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Mourinho believes that the social aspect of the tournament is of the greatest importance and that getting more nations from Africa, Asia and the Americas can only improve football around the world and bring more happiness to its inhabitants.
