Ex-Referees Chief Explains Why VAR Did Not Overturn Gravenberch’s Red Card Against Man City
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett has explained why VAR did not intervene in Ryan Gravenberch’s controversial dismissal during Liverpool’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City.
The incident occurred on Sunday, October 11, at Anfield, when Gravenberch received his second yellow card for a challenge on Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku. The decision left Liverpool with 10 men and changed the course of the match.
Manchester City capitalised on their numerical advantage, with Erling Haaland, Doku and Rayan Cherki all finding the net to secure a convincing victory.
Ahead of the 2026-27 season, supporters were informed that second yellow-card decisions resulting in red cards could be reviewed by VAR using the pitchside monitor. However, Gravenberch’s dismissal was not reviewed.
Why VAR Stayed Out of the Controversy
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett defended VAR’s decision not to intervene, explaining that the incident was largely a matter of the referee’s judgement.
He said the challenge was subjective and did not meet the required threshold of a clear and obvious error, which is necessary for VAR to step in.
Hackett also suggested that the referee may have reacted too quickly to the incident, although he acknowledged that other officials could reasonably agree with the decision to issue a second yellow card.
The former refereeing chief stressed the importance of respecting the significance of yellow cards, regardless of the offence for which they are awarded.
Wayne Rooney Also Criticises Gravenberch’s Decision
Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney also shared his thoughts on the incident. Although he considered the first yellow card harsh, he described Gravenberch’s second booking as “naive and stupid.”
Rooney argued that even minimal contact with Doku could have caused problems because of the winger’s pace and momentum.
The dismissal proved costly for Liverpool, who struggled to contain Manchester City after going down to 10 men. The incident has since sparked debate among supporters over the referee’s decision and whether the new VAR rules should have made a difference.
