Pep Guardiola declined to blame Diogo Dalot’s red-card escape for Manchester City’s 2-0 derby defeat. The United defender’s studs-up challenge on Jeremy Doku drew only a yellow, with VAR Craig Pawson deeming it ‘glancing.’ Ex-England striker Alan Shearer called it a clear red, questioning the review.

The incident highlights a growing divide between Premier League and European officiating. UEFA would likely have mandated a sending-off, but the PGMOL prioritizes protecting the league’s physical, fast-paced product. This creates grey areas in serious foul play, a recurring issue after seven errors were logged last season.

A similar Sarr challenge last April also drew only a yellow, suggesting PGMOL is applying consistent, subjective standards. The key is referee-to-VAR dialogue: if the official describes ‘glancing’ contact, it limits intervention. Fans and pundits, however, see a disconnect between VAR’s intended clarity and persistent controversy.