Liverpool Demands Answers Over Controversial Van Dijk Goal Disallowance in Man City Defeat
Liverpool have formally reached out to referee authorities seeking clarification after Virgil van Dijk’s goal was controversially disallowed in their 3–0 defeat to Manchester City. The club contacted Howard Webb, head of the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), to express “serious concerns” about the decision, arguing it was based on “subjective interpretation” rather than the strict rules of the game.
The decision came after Van Dijk’s header from a corner was ruled out because Andy Robertson was deemed offside. Liverpool, however, maintain that the offside law criteria were not met and insist the goal should have stood.
PGMOL defended the ruling, claiming Robertson interfered with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma’s line of sight. Liverpool officials, after reviewing multiple camera angles, say there was no significant obstruction. Their frustration was heightened as VAR referee Michael Oliver did not recommend an on-field review by Chris Kavanagh, a process Liverpool considers essential for VAR integrity.
After the match, manager Arne Slot acknowledged that the decision was incorrect but refused to blame it for the defeat. He noted that Kavanagh had allowed a similar goal last season when John Stones scored for City against Wolves despite an offside position.
Captain Virgil van Dijk echoed his manager’s disappointment, stating he believed the goal should have counted. He referenced a comparable situation from the previo4us season, acknowledging the loss but emphasizing the team must move forward.
