EPL OFFICIAL: Kovacic's handball was not a penalty due to the close distance

VAR confirmed referee Anthony Taylor's decision as Kovacic was in too close proximity to be penalized, and the midfielder had the final say when capping a powerful run with an immaculate right-footed effort into the left corner of Chelsea's goal.

In the first round Premier League match between Chelsea and Manchester City, during the 76th minute, Gusto and Kovačić were competing for the ball in the penalty area. After Gusto kicked the ball, it struck Kovačić's arm. Referee Anthony Taylor, who was not far from the incident, did not award a penalty, and VAR later confirmed this decision.