Gatti: ‘I would never give these penalties, for or against Juventus’ | OneFootball

Federico Gatti insists it is ‘strange’ that Como coach Cesc Fabregas would be so enraged by the penalty incident, the Juventus defender claiming he’d be ‘against it even if it was in our favour.’

The fallout from the 2-1 Bianconeri victory was all about a situation that happened when it was still 1-1 at the Stadio Sinigaglia.

Anastasios Douvikas had controlled and was running towards goal when Gatti put an arm across the striker’s chest and his fingertips brushed the ball, pushing it away from the Como player.

It was evaluated very briefly by VAR, but they opted not to take any action or suggest an On-Field Review, a decision that angered Como coach Fabregas.

Gatti shocked by Fabregas anger

COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 07: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks on before the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Juventus at Stadio G. Sinigaglia on February 07, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

When Gatti was interviewed by Sky Sport Italia afterwards and told about the reaction from the Como boss, the defender was surprised.

“I am honestly surprised, it is strange that a coach who played at such a high level in his career would say something like that,” replied Gatti.

“It is frankly ridiculous now that penalties are given for every tiny touch, we defenders are not given any support and we are excessively penalised, we’re not allowed to do anything anymore.

“If we give penalties for this, then we may as well just give up playing football.”

The footage does make it very clear that Gatti put his arm across the player’s chest and his gaze was aimed squarely on the ball as he brushed his fingertips to it.

“I put my arm to be an obstacle for the player, not the ball. The trouble with VAR is you can’t tell the extent of the touch,” he continued.

It was pointed out to him that similar penalties have been given already this season.

“That is the problem,” he replied. “I don’t want to see these penalties given ever for the tiniest of touches and I would say the same thing if it was given in favour of Juventus rather than against. It’s just not possible and I would’ve been angry.”