Manchester derby VAR officials sidelined for weekend games
3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 5:05 PM
Last updated Sep 14, 2026
Matt Donohue and Blake Antrobus, the video assistant referee and assistant VAR for the Manchester derby, are not assigned to this weekend's Premier League fixtures. This decision follows an admission of an "error of judgement" concerning Erling Haaland's winning goal for Manchester City against Manchester United. The goal, initially ruled offside, was allowed after VAR review, leading to debate over an offside call involving Enzo Fernandez. Pro Ref acknowledged the VAR did not fully assess Fernandez's position's impact and should have suggested an on-field review. Meanwhile, Manchester City continues to maintain a perfect league record after the match.
- •Donohue and Antrobus not appointed for weekend Premier League matches.
- •Haaland's goal in the derby was validated by VAR despite initial offside ruling.
- •Pro Ref admitted to a judgement error regarding the call.
- •City remains unbeaten, having won all four league games.
- 5:05 PMYahoo Sports — No weekend game for Manchester derby VAR officials
- 5:02 PMBBC Sport — No weekend game for Manchester derby VAR officials
"The video assistant referee for the Manchester derby, Matt Donohue, and his assistant VAR, Blake Antrobus, are not appointed for this weekend's Premier League games.
"The video assistant referee for the Manchester derby, Matt Donohue, and his assistant VAR, Blake Antrobus, are not appointed for this weekend's Premier League games.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 14, 2026, 5:05 PMNo weekend game for Manchester derby VAR officials
The video assistant referee for the Manchester derby, Matt Donohue, and his assistant VAR, Blake Antrobus, are not appointed for this weekend's Premier League games.
- BBC SportSep 14, 2026, 5:02 PMNo weekend game for Manchester derby VAR officials
The video assistant referee for the Manchester derby, Matt Donohue, and his assistant VAR, Blake Antrobus, are not appointed for this weekend's Premier League games.
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