August 4, 2026

Premier League Panel Upholds Referee’s Decision, Sides With VAR in Controversial Call

The Premier League’s KMI Panel has upheld the referee’s decision and sided with VAR in a controversial call involving Manchester United’s Amad Diallo, reaffirming the original call and providing greater transparency and accountability in the officiating process.

Officials correct not to give Amad penalty - panel
April 2, 2026 Editorial Team

A recent review of a contentious play by Manchester United forward Amad Diallo has reaffirmed the original call made by the referee and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) at a match between Manchester United and Bournemouth earlier this month. According to the Premier League’s Knowledge Matrix Innovation (KMI) Panel, the VAR made the correct decision in not awarding a penalty to Diallo.

The KMI Panel’s analysis focused on the exact moment the play occurred, considering all available footage to determine whether a penalty should have been given to Manchester United. In their decision, the panel found that the actions of the Bournemouth player in question did not constitute a foul worthy of a penalty.

The Premier League’s review process aims to ensure consistency and fairness in refereeing decisions. By involving an independent panel in contentious calls, the league can provide greater transparency and accountability in the officiating process.

This recent review is a clear demonstration of the Premier League’s commitment to reviewing and refining its officiating protocols. By consistently assessing high-profile decisions, the league can continue to build trust with fans and stakeholders.

The Premier League will continue to refine its use of VAR technology, continually seeking ways to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the review process. As the league moves forward, fans and players alike can expect to see ongoing improvements in the officiating process.

The review’s findings will likely have an impact on how the Premier League approaches similar situations in the future. As the league continues to adapt to the rapidly evolving world of football, their commitment to fairness and consistency will remain a top priority.