Premier League Clarifies Decision to Disallow Van Dijk’s Goal Against Man City
The Premier League has released an official statement explaining why Virgil van Dijk’s goal against Manchester City was ruled out during Liverpool’s 3–0 defeat at the Etihad Stadium.
According to the Premier League Match Centre’s post on X, the referee’s original decision to call offside was reviewed and confirmed by VAR. The officials determined that Andrew Robertson was in an offside position and interfered with play by making a movement directly in front of goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Footage from the match shows Robertson slightly ducking as Van Dijk’s header went toward goal, though Donnarumma appeared to have a clear view of the ball. Despite protests from Liverpool players, the on-field ruling stood — leaving the Reds denied an equaliser before Manchester City went on to score a second and later a third to seal victory.
Fans were left frustrated on social media, with many arguing that Robertson was not obstructing the goalkeeper’s line of sight. “Robbo wasn’t even in front of the keeper — how is that interfering?” one supporter commented. Others criticised the standard of refereeing and VAR consistency this season.
The match ended 3–0 in favour of City, with goals from Erling Haaland, Nico González, and Jérémy Doku. The result extended City’s strong run at home while dealing a blow to Liverpool’s pursuit of the Premier League’s top spots.
