Pro Ref has admitted an “error of judgement” over Erling Haaland’s winning goal in Manchester City’s 1-0 derby victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The refereeing body has contacted United to acknowledge that VAR should have recommended an on-field review after the goal was initially ruled offside, then allowed to stand following a check.
Pro Ref admits error over Haaland goal
Haaland struck in the second half to settle a match City played for much of the game with 10 men. The result left United with just one win from their opening four Premier League fixtures, while City moved to four victories from four.
Pro Ref said: “The on-field decision was offside against Erling Haaland – that was checked by VAR and he was found to be in an onside position.”
The organisation added that Enzo Fernandez had not played the ball during the same attack, meaning any offside offence was subjective. However, it said the VAR official had failed to recognise the likely impact of Haaland’s position and should have advised the referee to review the incident on the pitch.
“Contact has been made with Manchester United this evening to acknowledge what we deem is an error of judgement. A review of the incident will take place,” Pro Ref said.
United manager Michael Carrick had already expressed his dissatisfaction after the final whistle, appearing incredulous that Haaland’s goal had been permitted to stand following the VAR intervention.
The defeat was particularly damaging for United given City’s numerical disadvantage for a significant portion of the match. City are now second in the table, behind Arsenal only on goal difference.
