Manchester City’s 1-0 win over Manchester United in the Manchester derby on Sunday, September 13, 2026, has continued to generate controversy after the refereeing body admitted that VAR made an error in awarding Erling Haaland’s winning goal.

The controversy has now resulted in action against VAR officials Matt Donohue and Blake Antrobus, who have been stood down from Premier League duty until at least after the upcoming international break.

The decision was made by Chief Refereeing Officer Howard Webb and the Pro Ref management team.

“VAR Matt Donohue and AVAR Blake Antrobus stood down from duty after the Manchester derby. The decision made by Chief Refereeing Officer Howard Webb and the management team and they will not officiate until at least after the international break,” the statement read.

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Haaland’s goal was initially ruled out for offside before VAR determined that the Manchester City striker was in an onside position.

However, Enzo Fernandez was in an offside position and attempted to play the ball without making contact.

Pro Ref later admitted the VAR team failed to properly consider Fernandez’s involvement.

“In the same attack, it was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and, therefore, that makes any offside offence subjective, however, on this occasion, the VAR did not recognise the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review,” a statement said.

The decision proved decisive as City held on for victory despite playing with 10 men following Phil Foden’s first-half red card.



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