Why Virgil van Dijk’s Goal Was Ruled Out: Premier League Issues Full VAR Explanation

The Premier League has issued a detailed clarification on Sunday outlining why Virgil van Dijk’s powerful header against Manchester City was ruled out during their tense showdown at the Etihad Stadium.

The Liverpool captain had initially believed he had restored parity at 1-1 following Erling Haaland’s early opener, but the goal was swiftly disallowed after an offside review involving Andy Robertson. Although Robertson made no contact with the ball, match officials determined he had interfered with play.

According to information obtained by PulseNets, VAR concluded that Robertson’s movement directly obstructed the goalkeeper’s ability to challenge for Van Dijk’s header. The Premier League’s Match Centre later reinforced this interpretation, stating that Robertson’s position constituted “a clear and deliberate action that affected an opponent’s ability to play the ball,” making the goal invalid under the Laws of the Game.

PulseNets learnt that the ruling sparked widespread debate, particularly as Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma appeared unlikely to stop the header regardless of Robertson’s proximity.

Also Read: Why I ‘snubbed’ Virgil van Dijk– Thierry Henry

Manchester City capitalised on the momentum. Nico Gonzalez extended their lead before halftime, while Jeremy Doku added a third in the second half to secure the victory.

Liverpool now sit eighth on the Premier League table with 18 points. Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City remain within striking distance of leaders Arsenal, trailing by four points.