Premier League VAR official dropped after controversial Erling Braut Haaland goal in Manchester derby

VAR official Matt Donohue has been left out of this weekend’s Premier League fixtures following the controversial decision that allowed Erling Braut Haaland’s goal to stand in the Manchester derby, The Athletic reports.

Donohue was the lead VAR official when Manchester City’s winning goal was reviewed during their 1-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Assistant VAR Blake Antrobus has also been left out of the next round of Premier League matches. The decision was made by Pro Ref’s chief refereeing officer Howard Webb.

English football’s refereeing body Pro Ref has already admitted an ‘error of judgement’ was made during the review of Haaland’s goal.

Both officials may return to duty after the upcoming international break. This will be the first time Donohue is left out of a Premier League matchday this season. 

He worked as VAR during Brighton & Hove Albion’s opening-day win over Aston Villa, Sunderland’s victory over Fulham and Newcastle United’s draw with Bournemouth.

The 37-year-old will also not feature in the League Cup fixtures this week.

Haaland’s goal was initially ruled out for offside after he appeared to be ahead of United defender Patrick Dorgu when the ball was played across the box.

However, the VAR review overturned the on-field decision and advised the referee to award the goal.

Haaland was eventually judged to have been onside, but Enzo Fernandez was offside and moved towards the ball while United defender Lisandro Martinez was marking him. 

His movement affected Martinez’s ability to intercept the pass or deal with Haaland, who was unmarked at the back post.

Pro Ref later acknowledged that Donohue failed to recognise the likely impact of Fernandez’s position and should have sent the referee to the pitch-side monitor to make the final decision.

They also confirmed that United have been contacted to acknowledge their mistake and will now review the incident further.