Former Refereeing Chief Explains Why VAR Refused to Overturn Gravenberch’s Controversial Red Card Against Man City
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett has revealed why VAR did not intervene in Ryan Gravenberch’s controversial red card during Liverpool’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City.
The incident took place at Anfield on Sunday, October 11, 2026, when Gravenberch received a second yellow card following a challenge on Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku. His dismissal left Liverpool with 10 players and significantly affected their chances of getting back into the game.
City took full advantage of their numerical superiority, with Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku and Rayan Cherki all scoring to complete a comfortable victory.
Why VAR Did Not Intervene
Before the start of the 2026/27 season, fans were informed that second-yellow-card decisions leading to red cards could be reviewed by VAR using the pitchside monitor. However, Gravenberch’s dismissal was not subjected to such a review.
Speaking to Football Insider, Hackett explained that VAR’s decision to stay out of the incident was based on the subjective nature of the referee’s judgement.
According to the former refereeing chief, the decision did not meet the threshold for a clear and obvious error, which is required for VAR to intervene.
Hackett suggested that the referee might have made the decision too hastily, while acknowledging that other officials could also consider the second yellow card justified.
He further emphasised that yellow cards must be taken seriously, regardless of the nature of the offence.
Wayne Rooney Also Weighs In on the Controversy
Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney also offered his assessment of the incident.
Although Rooney felt Gravenberch’s first yellow card was harsh, he described the midfielder’s second booking as “naive and stupid.”
Rooney explained that even slight contact with Doku could have been dangerous because of the winger’s pace and momentum.
Liverpool Left Frustrated After Costly Dismissal
Gravenberch’s sending-off made Liverpool’s task considerably harder, as they struggled to cope with Manchester City after being reduced to 10 men.
The decision has since generated widespread debate among football supporters, with questions being raised about the referee’s judgement and whether the revised VAR rules should have allowed a review.
While Hackett has explained why VAR stayed out of the incident, the controversy is unlikely to disappear anytime soon, particularly among Liverpool supporters who believe the decision deserves closer scrutiny.
