VAR officials are stood down from Premier League duty after an “error of judgement” in the Manchester derby involving Erling Haaland. The decision relates to a goal that is allowed to stand after VAR review.
Multiple outlets report that VAR official Matt Donohue is affected, with The Athletic and the Independent describing the call as an “error of judgement” by the VAR team. The Independent focuses on the fact the goal remains valid following the VAR intervention. The Athletic adds that it will be the first matchday this season in which Donohue is not involved. The Daily Mail likewise says VAR officials are stood down and notes Donohue is not appointed for the Premier League matches of the following weekend.
Across the reports, the common point is that the league’s VAR team is removed from subsequent duty after the Haaland goal controversy, but outlets differ mainly in emphasis—some highlight the allowed goal outcome, while others stress the disciplinary or administrative consequence for the specific official.
