Galán's Hand: Was the Referee's Decision Correct?
In the recent match between Valencia and Atlético at Mestalla, a play generated controversy: Javi Galán’s hand inside the area. Despite Valencia’s vehement protests, the VAR, after consulting with referee Busquets Ferrer, ruled that there was no infraction.
The question that arises is evident: why wasn’t a penalty awarded? The key lies in the interpretation of the current regulations. Galán’s hand, although undeniable, is considered a natural and close-to-the-body position, with no intention of occupying additional space to obstruct the ball’s progress.
According to the regulations, a hand is only considered an infraction if it is voluntary, if the arm is in an unnatural position, or if it results in an immediate goal, even accidentally. In this case, Galán’s hand did not meet any of these criteria.
His arm was not extended unnaturally, nor was he deliberately seeking to intercept the ball. The referee’s decision was based on the interpretation that the hand was in a natural position and not seeking to extend the body space to block the shot.
Therefore, the controversial play was resolved according to the regulations, prioritizing the natural position of the arm and the absence of deliberate intent to block the ball. A decision that undoubtedly relieved the Rojiblancos fans and kept the score intact in a crucial match.
