FIFA has officially announced the dismissal of the officials and referees from the recent Newscastle United vs. Manchester City match. This decision comes after Harvey Barnes’ second goal for Newcastle was not offside after a lengthy VAR delay

Premier League Officials Explain Validation of Harvey Barnes’ Controversial Newcastle Goal Against Manchester City.

The Premier League was compelled to provide clarification regarding the decision to uphold Harvey Barnes’ second strike for Newcastle in their match against Manchester City. Barnes found the top corner during the second period to give Newcastle a 2-1 advantage, though the celebration was interrupted by an extended VAR review.

Following a scoreless opening 45 minutes at St James’ Park, the match exploded into action with rapid scoring from both teams. Barnes opened the scoring in the 63rd minute, only for Ruben Dias to equalize for the visitors five minutes afterward with a deflected effort.

The Newcastle forward restored his side’s lead in the 70th minute with his second goal, though it underwent a prolonged VAR examination covering two separate concerns. The scoring sequence began when Nick Woltemade directed a header toward the far post for Bruno Guimaraes, whose shot struck the crossbar.

Barnes collected the rebound, demonstrated good control, and finished decisively from short range into the upper corner. While he celebrated, City’s squad protested to the match official, arguing the goal should be disallowed due to Guimaraes being in an offside position when receiving Woltemade’s header.

Former Newcastle defender Jonathan Woodgate shared this view during BBC Radio 5 Live commentary, stating he believed Guimaraes was offside. Social media users echoed the confusion, questioning why offside lines weren’t displayed and expressing certainty about the infringement.

However, the official ultimately validated the goal, igniting celebrations among the home supporters—and prompting an official statement from the Premier League Match Centre.

Their explanation stated: “VAR reviewed and upheld the referee’s goal decision—confirming both Guimaraes and Barnes were in legal positions during the buildup. VAR additionally verified the referee’s determination that no foul occurred on Donnarumma before the goal.”

Accompanying photographs revealed that Dias had actually kept Guimaraes onside with his shoulder position. This proved to be a critical ruling, as Newcastle held firm under sustained late pressure to secure a 2-1 victory.

The outcome left City in third place in the Premier League standings, trailing leaders Arsenal by four points ahead of Arsenal’s north London derby against Tottenham on Sunday. The victory also marked Eddie Howe’s maiden triumph over City, providing significant relief following the international break.