Marelli flags De Bruyne’s push on Vasquez in Napoli‑Genoa clash

De Bruyne’s opening strike gave Napoli a 2‑0 win at Genoa, but the goal immediately sparked a VAR review after the Belgian appeared to push Vasquez on the back. The incident became the decisive moment, prompting former referee Luca Marelli to label the contact evident.

Il Napoli controlled the game after the early lead, creating several chances before Vergara added a second goal to seal the victory. The win marked Napoli’s first at Genoa this season, confirming their dominance in the match.

Marelli questions the decision

Marelli argued that De Bruyne’s right arm, pressed against Vasquez’s spine, was more than a simple support and should have been penalised. He warned that the higher VAR line this year makes such incidents harder to overlook, a point he expects will be debated, especially given De Bruyne’s ex City background.

Referee Di Bello, positioned behind the play, did not see a clear foul and allowed the goal to stand, noting there was no low‑leg contact. His assessment contrasted with Marelli’s, who believed the push was evident despite the lack of a traditional tackle.

The VAR protocol this season features a higher threshold for interference, according to the league’s updated guidelines. The incident was highlighted in Stampa A− A+ coverage, which cited the controversy as a test case for the new VAR standards.

Napoli’s 2‑0 triumph reinforces their recent form, while the debate over De Bruyne’s challenge may influence future officiating decisions.