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Chelsea and Manchester United are among the clubs who blocked the introduction of VAR in the Premier League this season, according to Pep Guardiola.

At a Premier League shareholders meeting in London where all 20 member clubs voted, the decision was been made to not to bring in the Video Assistant Referee technology this season.

A statement read: "Premier League clubs have today agreed to continue advanced testing of Video Assistant Referees (VAR) throughout Season 2018/19.

"The decision came after comprehensive discussions regarding the progress made in VAR trials in English football, and key learnings from the many competitions using it elsewhere. The clubs recognised and are grateful for the substantial developments made by PGMOL Managing Director Mike Riley and his team.

"The clubs agreed that advanced testing will continue to the end of Season 2018/19 to make further improvements to the system, especially around communication inside the stadium and for those following at home and around the world.

"The Premier League will also be asking for VAR to be used more extensively in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup in Season 2018/19."

VAR was in use for both domestic cup competitions in England last season, although it did come under fire at times from supporters due to the length of time it takes for a decision to be made.

Having been on the receiving end of a couple of controversial refereeing decisions against Manchester United as well as Liverpool, it's no surprise that City were advocating the introduction of VAR.

However, the City boss has outlined which two clubs he believes have put a stop to it.

"I think Manchester City agreed to it but the other top teams, United and Chelsea I think, they didn't want it," Guardiola said. "It's okay, it will happen though. Not just here in England, all around the world, the referees must be helped.

"Today the football is quicker, it's faster. Now, for example, right now we don't know if it was a penalty or no penalty for Madrid.

"It's not easy for the referees. I think they need to be helped, but if the guys decided to do that, it will happen."

On the opening weekend of the 2018/2019 season there were several incidents which VAR would have been of use.

Arsenal were denied what looked to be a stonewall penalty when Shkodran Mustafi was brought down in the box by City defender Benjamin Mendy, while Sadio Mane's second goal in Liverpool's 4-0 win over West Ham United at Anfield should not have stood as he standing in an offside position when the ball was played.

Guardiola's side were on the wrong end of a controversial decision against Wolves on Saturday (August 25) as Willy Bolly appeared to use his hand to score and give the hosts the lead.

Aymeric Laporte equalised soon after to rescue a point for the champions and the Spaniard refused to be drawn on VAR after the game.

"I didn't see it," he insisted. "I'm not the referee. I didn't speak to him about that. I am not the referee and I never will be." Asked if he supported VAR, the City boss said: "I don't work for the Premier League."

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