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League: EPLSport: SoccerCountry: EnglandCategory: General

VAR official for Manchester City goal is a Tottenham supporter

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 4:12 PM

Last updated Sep 14, 2026

VAR official for Manchester City goal is a Tottenham supporter
Summary

During the Manchester derby on September 13, a controversial VAR decision awarded Manchester City a goal despite Enzo Fernandez's offside position. The VAR, Matt Donohue, is reportedly a Tottenham Hotspur fan. Following the match, Pro Ref, the refereeing organization, admitted the decision was an error and offered to review the incident. The goal allowed City to maintain their perfect start in the Premier League this season.

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ESPN SoccerYahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Manchester City won the match 1-0 due to a disputed VAR decision.
  • •Enzo Fernandez was in an offside position during the goal.
  • •VAR official Matt Donohue is a Spurs supporter, raising conflict concerns.
  • •Pro Ref acknowledged the decision as an error of judgment.
  • •The decision has sparked significant discussion among fans and analysts.
Latest Updates
  • 5:03 PMESPN Soccer — VAR from Manchester derby stood down from duty
  • 8:35 AMYahoo Sports — VAR who gave Manchester City goal is a Spurs fan
What they're saying
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The VAR official who incorrectly allowed a Manchester City goal to stand during Sunday’s Manchester derby is understood to be a Tottenham Hotspur supporter.Photo by Carl Recine/Getty ImagesMancheste...

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The VAR who made an "error of judgement" in awarding a goal to Manchester City in Sunday's derby at Old Trafford has not been appointed to a Premier League game this weekend.

Related Teams & Leagues
Manchester CityArsenalChelseaLiverpoolManchester UnitedEPLSoccer

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