Referee Body Admits ‘Error’ for Haaland Goal in Manchester Derby

The Professional Game Referees body, Pro Ref, has admitted an “error of judgment” in the decision to allow Erling Haaland’s winning goal during Manchester City’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United.

Haaland scored in the 60th minute at Old Trafford to give City victory in the Manchester derby after his initial effort was ruled offside by the on-field officials.

The decision was subsequently overturned following a VAR review, with Haaland determined to have been in an onside position because United defender Patrick Dorgu had played him onside.

However, the decision came under renewed scrutiny because City midfielder Enzo Fernandez was in an offside position during the attack and moved towards the ball.

Although Fernandez did not make contact with the ball, his movement was considered potentially significant because United defender Lisandro Martinez was also attempting to react to the cross.

Pro Ref said VAR failed to recognise the likely impact of Fernandez’s position and should have recommended that referee Michael Oliver conduct an on-field review.

The refereeing body subsequently contacted Manchester United to acknowledge what it described as an “error of judgment” and confirmed that the incident would be reviewed.

The admission comes after United manager Michael Carrick and several players expressed frustration over the decision following the match.

Carrick questioned the interpretation of the offside rule and the VAR process, while Martinez described the decision as an injustice.

The controversy has reignited debate over the consistency of VAR decisions in the Premier League, particularly concerning the subjective element of the offside rule when a player does not touch the ball but may interfere with an opponent.

Despite the admission, the result remains unchanged, with Manchester City retaining the three points from the derby.

The victory also maintained City’s perfect start to the Premier League season, while United were left to rue a controversial decision in a match they played against 10-man City for much of the second half.

Pro Ref’s planned review is expected to examine the VAR process and whether officials correctly assessed Fernandez’s influence on the play before Haaland’s decisive finish.