VAR audio from Erling Haaland’s Manchester derby goal made public

Key Points:

• Howard Webb, chief refereeing officer at Pro Ref, criticized VAR official Matt Donohue for "tunnel vision" during the review of Erling Haaland’s winning goal in Manchester City's 1-0 victory over Manchester United, noting Donohue focused solely on Haaland's offside position.
• The VAR check confirmed Haaland was 3cm onside but failed to properly evaluate Enzo Fernandez's offside position and his role in distracting a defender, which should have influenced the decision.
• The goal was awarded without consulting on-field referee Michael Oliver, and both Donohue and assistant VAR Blake Antrobus have been temporarily stood down pending a review after the error was acknowledged.
• Webb expressed disappointment with the outcome, emphasized the officials’ personal accountability, and confirmed communication with Manchester United to admit the error and review procedural failures.
• Audio released from the VAR review revealed thorough checks for ball contact by Fernandez but no discussion on his interference with play, highlighting a critical oversight in the decision-making process.