Liverpool have responded decisively after refusing to accept PGMOL’s explanation for ruling out Virgil van Dijk’s goal.

Liverpool have formally reached out to the PGMOL to express their dissatisfaction over the controversial decision to rule out Virgil van Dijk’s goal against Manchester City on Sunday.

The Reds skipper briefly believed he had brought his side level in the 38th minute, only for the effort to be disallowed on the grounds that Andy Robertson was offside and allegedly obstructing the goalkeeper’s view. This came despite the Scottish defender making no contact with the ball and standing to the left of Gianluigi Donnarumma rather than directly in his line of sight. Many, including Sky Sports pundit Jay Bothroyd, argued that the only player potentially impeding the goalkeeper was Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku.

According to The Athletic’s James Pearce, Liverpool contacted PGMOL head Howard Webb on Monday afternoon to express “serious concerns” about the decision, maintaining that the goal should have stood. After carefully reviewing all available footage from multiple angles, the club concluded that none of the conditions required to disallow the goal were met and that Donnarumma’s vision was not obstructed by Robertson.

Furthermore, Liverpool are questioning why VAR official Michael Oliver did not advise on-field referee Chris Kavanagh to review the incident on the pitchside monitor. The club believes that the standard VAR protocol was not properly followed, and that a different verdict could have been reached if all checks had been completed as expected.

While Liverpool’s complaint is unlikely to bring about a reversal or any significant action from the PGMOL beyond a standard acknowledgement, the club’s decision to raise the issue demonstrates their commitment to accountability and fair play. Their approach has been measured and evidence-based, avoiding an emotional or reactionary response.

Nonetheless, the incident has sparked frustration among fans and pundits alike, especially given the prolonged delay before the assistant referee raised his flag and the lack of intervention from VAR. The situation once again highlights ongoing concerns about inconsistency and transparency in Premier League officiating.

Although Liverpool’s protest will not alter the result or erase the disappointment from Sunday’s defeat, the club’s proactive stance ensures their perspective is formally documented and underscores the need for greater scrutiny and improvement in refereeing standards.