Matt Donohue, the video assistant referee for the Manchester derby, and his assistant, Blake Antrobus, have been removed from the officiating roster for this weekend’s Premier League matches. The decision was taken by Premier League refereeing body Pro Ref’s chief refereeing officer, Howard Webb, and the management team.
The move follows Pro Ref’s acknowledgement of an "error of judgement" in the decision to award Erling Haaland’s winning goal for Manchester City against Manchester United on Sunday. Haaland’s 60th‑minute strike, a shot that hit the back post from Josko Gvardiol’s cross, was initially ruled offside. After VAR intervention, the goal was upheld as Haaland was deemed onside by Patrick Dorgu’s boot.
Controversy arose because City midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was in an offside position, interfered with play by diving to head the ball before Haaland’s finish. Pro Ref stated, "It was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective," adding that the VAR should have recommended an on‑field review.
Manchester City, who had Phil Foden sent off after 23 minutes, preserved a 100% league record from four games with the victory.
With Donohue and Antrobus off the panel, the Premier League will appoint alternative officials for the upcoming weekend’s fixtures. Fans and clubs will watch closely to see how the decision impacts future match reviews.
