Last updated: September 14, 2026, 10:13 PM ET
Premier League: Manchester Derby VAR Fallout
Manchester City's 1-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford was overshadowed by a contentious Erling Haaland winner that sparked furious debate about the limits of video review, with the goal standing despite what many considered a clear offside in the build-up. The VAR at the centre of the storm, Matt Donohue, has been stood down from duty and will not officiate any Premier League fixture this weekend after the refereeing body acknowledged an "error of judgement." Donohue and his assistant VAR, Blake Antrobus, are both absent from appointments for the coming round of top-flight games. Reports suggest the blundering pair could even be blocked from United fixtures as the fallout continues. The incident has reignited the broader debate about whether VAR's pursuit of perfection is fundamentally doomed, with analysts arguing that flawless officiating will always remain out of reach regardless of technology. Nearly a decade into its existence, supporters remain left in the dark about live audio, with no imminent prospect of broadcasters being allowed to air in-game conversations between officials.
Michael Carrick has told his Manchester United players to move on quickly despite their sense of injustice, but the pressure is mounting after a fourth straight game without a win. Gary Neville described the derby defeat as a bad day for Carrick, noting that United failed to beat a City side reduced to ten men following Phil Foden's early red card. The result leaves United with a joint-worst start to a Premier League season and raises familiar questions about the club's direction. City's performance, meanwhile, was described as a ten-man master class as they outplayed their rivals despite the numerical disadvantage. In a separate officiating controversy, Arsenal will contact refereeing body Pro Ref over the penalty awarded against them at Sunderland, with the club seeking an explanation for the decision that saw Ezri Konsa penalised. A source confirmed the Gunners will formally raise the issue with the governing body. Despite the controversy, Arsenal secured a 2-0 win, with David Raya earning a 9/10 rating for his heroics and Bruno Guimaraes impressing at 8/10.
Leeds United's Statement Win
Leeds United maintained their unbeaten start to the Premier League campaign with a dominant 4-1 victory over Newcastle at Elland Road. Dominic Calvert-Lewin was the star of the show, scoring in his fifth consecutive league match and prompting calls for an England recall after being described as "unplayable" and "almost perfect." The striker's form has made him a genuine contender for Sebastien Pocognoli's first squad. Player ratings from the match saw Calvert-Lewin shine brightly while Newcastle defender Sven Botman struggled badly against Leeds' relentless press. Daniel Farke's side have now taken seven points from their opening fixtures, with the German manager outlining his blueprint for success ahead of Monday Night Football's managerial debut clash between Farke and Matthias Jaissle. Monday's match could also create Premier League history, as BBC Sport noted that a gameweek without home wins has never occurred in the competition's current format.
The weekend's results have raised questions about whether the title race is already down to two teams, with BBC Sport asking if Arsenal and Manchester City are the only genuine contenders after just four games. Troy Deeney's team of the week featured standout performers including Donnarumma, Konsa, Fernandez and Schade, with the former striker making his weekly selections after the latest round of fixtures.
Chelsea Held as Hull Impress
Chelsea's defensive frailties were exposed once again as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Hull City at Stamford Bridge, with the in-form visitors demonstrating why Blues supporters may be in for a difficult season. Despite a star-studded attack that has rescued points on multiple occasions, Chelsea's backline was repeatedly breached by an impressive Hull side. The result adds to the growing scrutiny on the club's defensive organisation, with Gab Marcotti noting that Chelsea were bullied by Hull in a performance that should concern supporters. Real Madrid also faced the unusual experience of being booed by their own fans despite their continued strong form.
Serie A: Inter and Roma Maintain Perfect Starts
Defending champions Inter Milan produced another rousing comeback to beat Udinese 5-3 at San Siro, maintaining their perfect start to the new Serie A campaign. Roma matched that achievement with their own victory, ensuring both clubs remain unbeaten at the top of the table. The result underlined Inter's attacking firepower while also highlighting defensive vulnerabilities that Udinese exploited repeatedly. In Spain, Valencia's miserable start to the season has cost coach Carlos Corberán his job, with the club dismissing both Corberán and chief executive Ron Gourlay on Sunday with the side winless and bottom of La Liga. The decision came just a week after Rodri publicly criticised the club's direction.
La Liga: Yamal's Barcelona Roll On
Lamine Yamal fired a double as Barcelona won 4-2 at Levante to extend their 100% start in La Liga to five matches and move three points clear at the top. The young winger's brace continued his remarkable rise, and he subsequently declared that he and Kylian Mbappé are the best players in the world, though he believes the Ballon d'Or should be his this year. Atlético Madrid's Jonathan David scored his first goal for the club in a 3-0 win at Real Sociedad, with Diego Simeone praising the Canadian's calm finishing and saying he brings something different to the team.
Bundesliga: Kane Delivers for Bayern
Harry Kane scored the winner as Bayern Munich claimed a 2-1 victory over SV Elversberg in the Bundesliga on Sunday. The England captain's goal proved decisive in a tighter-than-expected contest. Bayern also made headlines off the pitch with the unveiling of their Oktoberfest kit, a floral design marking the famous Bavarian festival that has been described as their wildest yet.
MLS: Sullivan's Breakout Moment
Cavan Sullivan recorded his first two-goal game in MLS and added an assist as the Philadelphia Union cruised to a 5-0 victory over San Diego on Sunday night. The performance came at an opportune moment, just ahead of the United States squad reveal. In other MLS news, the Chicago Fire's winless run has now extended beyond three weeks, precipitating a slide down ESPN's MLS Power Rankings as Nashville cemented top spot. The Houston Dash announced they have fired head coach Fabrice Gautrat and technical director Twila Kilgore amid the club's ongoing struggles.
NWSL: Gotham Rise as Spirit Slip
Gotham FC are the new leaders in ESPN's NWSL Power Rankings, taking advantage of a shocking 3-0 slip-up from Washington Spirit. The result reshuffled the top of the standings. San Diego Wave suffered a significant blow with the news that forward Catarina Macario has been placed on the season-ending injury list due to an ongoing knee issue. Trinity Rodman made a remarkable dash from the soccer pitch to the tennis court, arriving in time to watch boyfriend Ben Shelton compete in the US Open final after her Spirit side's loss.
Scotland: Pocognoli's New-Look Squad
Sebastien Pocognoli will name his first Scotland squad on Tuesday, with the new head coach expected to introduce fresh faces as he takes charge for the first time. Stoke City centre-half Luke Graham and Sevilla striker Robbie Ure will receive their first call-ups when the squad is announced. The selections signal a new era for the national team as Pocognoli puts his stamp on the group.
Manchester Derby Fallout Continues
The fallout from Sunday's Manchester derby continued to dominate discussion, with analysts noting that the match was fascinating beyond the errors for its tactical intrigue and the performance of ten-man City. The VAR controversy has prompted broader questions about the system's implementation and whether the pursuit of perfect officiating is realistic. BBC Sport examined the complexities of VAR audio and why supporters remain frustrated by the lack of transparency nearly a decade after the technology's introduction.
Transfer News and Gossip
Atletico Madrid and Juventus are tracking Noni Madueke, while Liverpool are among the clubs looking at PSV's Paul Wanner, and Lazio are considering free agent Mauro Icardi, according to Tuesday's gossip column. Arsenal are reportedly keeping tabs on Liverpool teenager Rio Ngumoha, with the Gunners monitoring the young winger's development. Liverpool are also reportedly looking to sign Bournemouth's Rayan next summer. Celtic face competition from Championship clubs for Liverpool left-back Luke Chambers, with the Scottish champions facing a battle for his signature. Philippe Coutinho is set to join Neymar at Santos for the remainder of the year, with the former Liverpool and Barcelona playmaker set for a return to Brazilian football.
International Management News
Marcelo Gallardo, one of the most decorated coaches in Argentine league history, has reached an agreement to manage Ecuador ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The appointment signals Ecuador's ambition to build a competitive side for the next World Cup cycle. Mexico's National Antitrust Commission has launched an investigation into potential monopolistic practices in domestic soccer, prompted by fan complaints over anti-competitive practices, with promotion and relegation at the heart of the probe.
Carabao Cup and Scottish Cup Action
The Carabao Cup third round takes centre stage this week, with all ten ties available to watch live on Sky Sports. In Scotland, Rangers stormed into the Premier Sports Cup semi-finals at Celtic's expense, with Dan Neil's performance drawing comparisons to Barry Ferguson as the midfielder ran the show in a dominant display. The result was described as "shades of Ferguson" by former players. Hibernian and Hearts will meet in a semi-final that David Gray is relishing as "very special" while counterpart Wouter Vrancken keeps his cool about the prospect. Aberdeen could face disciplinary action after some supporters invaded the pitch following their cup win over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park. The podcast recapping the weekend's Scottish action noted how Rangers ripped through Celtic while Hibs, Hearts and Aberdeen all reached Hampden.
WSL and Women's Football
BBC Women's Football Weekly examined how costly early dropped points could be for Arsenal in their fight for the WSL title, with the Gunners already facing questions about their championship credentials. Manchester United's women's team are also under scrutiny, with Sky Sports columnist Laura Hunter analysing whether the club is spiralling just two weeks into the new season under Eva Olid. Jersey Bulls Women suffered the first league defeat in their history, going down 3-0 at Sutton United Under 23s.
Cricket: England and Australia News
England will hand a T20 international debut to Derbyshire batter Aneurin Donald in the series opener against Sri Lanka in Southampton on Tuesday night, with the match live on Sky Sports. Kevin Pietersen is "buzzing" to be back with the England set-up, having joined the white-ball coaching staff for the series, according to interim head coach Marcus Trescothick, who said the former batter will add spark to the group. England coach Brendon McCullum wants to be "challenged" by Pietersen and has no problem with criticism from the former player. Australia's Steve Smith says he "does not know" if he will play in next summer's Ashes in England, leaving his future uncertain.
Rugby and Other Sports
Sir Kevin Sinfield will take the Super League Grand Final match ball on his seventh and final challenge before delivering it at Old Trafford, the scene of so many of his most famous successes, as he presents it in honour of Rob Burrow. England star Henry Pollock would consider playing abroad or changing sports altogether, with the Northampton Saints player open to new avenues as talks over his future continue. The World Grand Prix darts takes place at Leicester's Mattioli Arena beginning September 28, with Luke Littler looking to defend his title and the full draw now confirmed. The BMW PGA Championship gets underway this week at Wentworth, with Rory McIlroy returning to headline a field that includes questions over LIV Golf participation and celebrity Pro-Am entrants.
Boxing and Formula 1
Conor Benn is left contemplating his next options after suffering a heavy stoppage loss to Ryan Garcia in Las Vegas, admitting he "doesn't have the answer" about what comes next. The full card has been confirmed for the Johnny Fisher vs Michael Pirotton bill on September 26, live on Sky Sports, featuring a constellation of unbeaten talents. Formula 1 drivers are hopeful that organisers will make changes to the Madring circuit to aid overtaking for future seasons, with obvious improvements needed. Martin Brundle analysed the rule that cost Lando Norris and explained why the new venue requires changes following its inaugural grand prix. Alexander Zverev believes he is currently the best player in the world following his US Open victory.
NFL and Golf
The New York Giants opened their season with a 28-20 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, with Jaxson Dart picking out Isaiah Likely for two touchdowns in John Harbaugh's debut. Solheim Cup-winning captain Anna Nordqvist has left the door open for a potential return to the role for Team Europe in 2028, saying "you're never going to say never" after guiding the hosts to home victory. Windsor's flat season finale headlines Monday's racing action, with the Sky Sports Racing cameras heading to the track for its final flat fixture where Leger hero Saffie Osborne will be in action.
Other Football News
Cristiano Ronaldo has called for lifetime stadium bans for supporters who repeatedly chanted the name of the late Diogo Jota at his Portugal team-mate Ruben Neves, demanding the strongest possible punishment from the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo reiterated his call for lifetime bans for those involved in the taunting. Italy international Daniel Maldini has had his driving licence suspended following a car crash in Milan. Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko, a cult figure at the club who made almost 400 appearances in the 1990s, has died aged 64. The Czech keeper was remembered as a trailblazing figure whose name fans still chant long after his exit. Callum McGregor criticised Celtic's "team of individuals" after their Old Firm collapse, saying "you saw a team and a team of individuals" in the defeat to Rangers. Jamie Carragher says Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is "becoming the Sir Alex Ferguson" of the Premier League after strongly criticising the penalty awarded against his side at Sunderland. Amy Hunt hit back at Sydney Sweeney's controversial betting advert, telling the US actress that "this is what women in sport look like". Birmingham's Luis Vázquez put the ball over the bar from close range on Saturday, but ESPN determined it was not even close to being the worst miss ever. Northern Ireland will face four Nations League games in 11 days later this month, with injuries and individual form making for an interesting selection when Michael O'Neill names his squad. Leicester City's sad descent to English soccer's third tier, barely a decade after their stunning Premier League win and Champions League debut, has raised questions about whether there is a way back for the club.