Sergio Camello launches scathing attack on VAR and modern football
Rayo Vallecano forward Sergio Camello has launched a remarkable public tirade against VAR and the direction of modern football following his side's dramatic 3-3 draw with Real Sociedad on Saturday. The 24-year-old Spaniard, who scored Rayo's opening goal, was left incensed by two key video review decisions that went against his team in the second half.
According to reports from DAZN España, Camello's anger boiled over post-match, culminating in a stark assessment of the sport's evolution. "Football was beautiful when it was football," Camello stated. "When I was a child, it was something completely different. What it's becoming, or what the leaders want it to become, is shit. Before, the footballers were the protagonists, and now that's no longer the case."
The flashpoint occurred in the 69th minute when a potential winning goal from teammate Pedro Díaz was disallowed after a seven-minute VAR review. Minutes later, the technology awarded a penalty to Real Sociedad, which was converted by Mikel Oyarzabal to secure a point for the visitors. Camello specifically contested that decision, telling reporters, "The VAR is going to review a contentious action. It's neither a penalty nor a chance. The stakes are enormous. We boast about having the best league, the most prestigious... and this is what we endure."
Camello, a product of the Atlético Madrid academy who joined Rayo Vallecano on a permanent deal in 2023, is known for his passionate and outspoken nature both on and off the pitch. His comments represent one of the most direct criticisms of football's governing structures by a current La Liga player this season. The draw left Rayo Vallecano in 14th place, six points clear of the relegation zone with five matches remaining.
The forward's outburst taps into a growing sentiment among some players and fans who feel technology is eroding the spontaneous emotion of the game. His reference to football's leadership suggests a deeper disillusionment with the sport's commercial and regulatory trajectory beyond just the implementation of VAR. While player frustration with officiating is common, Camello's sweeping condemnation of the sport's modern era is notably stark.
It remains to be seen if Camello will face any disciplinary action from La Liga for his comments. For Rayo Vallecano, the immediate focus will shift to preparing for their next fixture, with the club seeking to secure their top-flight status for another year. Camello's future at the club, meanwhile, appears stable despite his public frustration, with the player under contract until 2028.
