VAR controversy intensifies as former referees’ chief criticizes Chris Kavanagh
The fallout from Manchester City’s 3–0 win over Liverpool continues, with a former Premier League referees’ chief condemning Chris Kavanagh for what he called one of the “worst decisions” of the season.
The uproar centers on two moments — Virgil van Dijk’s disallowed goal and the penalty awarded to Jeremy Doku — both of which fans and pundits have labeled “embarrassing” and “inexcusable.” Now, even former officials are joining the backlash.
The ex-referees’ boss said he was “simply amazed” that Van Dijk’s goal was ruled out. “Andy Robertson wasn’t challenging for the ball or blocking the goalkeeper’s view,” he explained.
“He ducked out of the way and wasn’t interfering with play at all. To call that offside is a very poor decision.”
He added that such inconsistent refereeing “damages VAR’s credibility” and leaves everyone uncertain about how the rules are being applied.
The controversial moment came in the 42nd minute when Van Dijk’s header found the net, only for the goal to be overturned after a lengthy VAR review claiming Robertson had obstructed play. Replays, however, showed he wasn’t in the goalkeeper’s line of sight.
Former referees have also voiced criticism, with one saying, “That was a legitimate goal — there was no offside or obstruction. VAR made the situation worse instead of fixing it.”
Another remarked that some referees “apply rules mechanically without understanding the flow of the game.”
Liverpool fans have expressed fury online, using hashtags like #JusticeForLiverpool and #KavanaghOut, accusing officials of bias. One fan wrote, “If this is VAR, bring back human error — at least that was honest.”
PGMOL, the body responsible for referees, has yet to comment, though reports suggest Kavanagh’s performance will be reviewed this week.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot is reportedly “furious and disheartened,” and the club plans to file an official complaint to the Premier League over the officiating.
With growing backlash from fans, pundits, and now former referees, pressure is mounting on PGMOL and the Premier League to admit that Kavanagh’s calls were a serious mistake.
