Pro Ref stands down VAR officials after Manchester derby controversy
Abdullateef Fowewe
Video assistant referee Matt Donohue and his assistant Blake Antrobus have been stood down from Premier League duties for the coming weekend following an admitted error in Manchester City’s 1-0 win over Manchester United on Sunday.
The decision was taken by Pro Ref chief refereeing officer Howard Webb and his management team.
The pair will not receive appointments until at least after the international break.
The controversy centred on Erling Haaland’s 60th-minute winner at Old Trafford.
The goal was initially disallowed for offside. After a lengthy VAR check, Donohue determined Haaland was onside using semi-automated technology and recommended the goal be awarded.
However, City midfielder Enzo Fernández was in an offside position and lunged towards the cross, which Pro Ref later acknowledged should have prompted an on-field review for interfering with play.
Pro Ref contacted Manchester United on Sunday evening to concede an “error of judgement.”
A spokesperson stated that while Fernández did not touch the ball, the VAR “did not recognise the likely impact of his position.”
Sunday’s Manchester derby was already high-stakes.
Manchester City played more than 70 minutes with 10 men after Phil Foden was shown a straight red card in the first half for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes.
United dominated large periods and hit the woodwork, but Haaland’s controversial strike proved decisive.
Donohue, who has extensive experience as a VAR despite limited games as a main referee, was making his first appearance in a Manchester derby.
He had previously been involved in high-profile incidents involving United, including a verbal exchange with Harry Maguire earlier in 2026.
Antrobus served as the assistant VAR.
Standing officials down after clear errors has become a more frequent response from Pro Ref under Webb as the organisation seeks to improve accountability amid ongoing scrutiny of VAR decisions in the Premier League.
