Premier League warns clubs after VAR blunder in Manchester derby

In the Sunday Manchester derby, a VAR intervention turned Erling Haaland’s off‑side‑ruled strike into the decisive 1‑0 winner for Manchester City, handing Manchester United a defeat. The Premier League later highlighted the incident as a ‘significant’ VAR error in a statement to clubs, written by senior sports reporter Daniel Marsh on 22 Sep.

The match and the VAR reversal

Manchester United fell 1‑0 to Manchester City after Erling Haaland’s strike was allowed following a VAR review. The on‑field officials had flagged the goal for off‑side, but the review ignored Enzo Fernández’s off‑side position when he challenged Josko Gvardiol’s cross, allowing the goal to stand.

Supporters and pundits dissected the decision instantly. analyst Gary Neville, speaking about his former club, suggested an apology would be forthcoming.

VAR officials Matt Donohue and Blake Antrobus were suspended from duties until after the international break. Their removal was announced alongside the league’s statement.

League response and disciplinary action

The Times reported that the Premier League sent correspondence to clubs, describing the incident as having ‘overshadowed’ a positive start to the 2026‑27 campaign. The letter, dated 22 Sep, referenced a full review by Pro Ref chief Howard Webb, who called it an ‘error of judgement’. The release, accompanied by View 3 Images, outlined the league’s stance.

The league issued a Sport‑focused statement outlining the error. The league’s statement read: “Despite a positive start, early season officiating performance has been overshadowed by a significant VAR error in the Manchester United v Manchester City match on Sunday, September 13. The VAR did not recognise an off‑side offence by Enzo Fernández and incorrectly overturned the original decision of off‑side to allow the goal to stand. Pro Ref are undertaking a full review of the incident, which will be reviewed by the Premier League, with learnings being adopted immediately.”

Howard Webb later expressed disappointment, saying officials were “really hurt” and would not officiate again until after the international break. He acknowledged the personal pride officials take in their work and the impact of the mistake.

The controversy follows earlier grievances, notably Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s protest over a penalty decision in their 2‑0 victory over Sunderland. Those complaints have intensified scrutiny of VAR and Pro Ref procedures.

Overall, the league’s swift actions and the pending review aim to restore confidence after an error that has dominated early‑season headlines. United’s defeat, coupled with the controversy, underscores the urgency of the review.