Carrick savages VAR logic after Haaland's controversial goal sinks United in derby

Manchester United were beaten 1-0 by Manchester City at Old Trafford on derby day, with Michael Carrick left seething after VAR upheld Erling Haaland’s back-post winner despite a contentious offside call involving Enzo Fernandez.

Fernandez was in an offside position as he threw himself at a cross six yards from goal, a movement that appeared to distract both Lisandro Martinez and goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Fernandez did not make contact with the ball, but Lammens was left out of position when Haaland’s effort crept past him. The goal was initially ruled out before VAR intervened and overturned the decision, determining that Fernandez had not been interfering with play.

Carrick was incredulous. “At the time I hadn’t totally seen it. But the explanation I got was he wasn’t interfering with play, so I just don’t get it. I really don’t get it,” he said after the match.

The United manager went further, questioning the entire infrastructure built around modern officiating. “I can’t understand how they’re trying to help referees and putting so many layers behind them with so many people, so many bodies, so many screens, and so many whatever offices they are to try and come up with the right decisions,” he said.

“If that’s how the rules are interpreted, that you’re not interfering with play because you’ve thrown yourself at the ball six yards from goal and pretty much nearly touched it, which then Licha has to react from — on top of that, the line was a bit dubious where they drew the line to start with. It’s worrying if that’s really how the game’s seen by those who are officiating it.”

Carrick confirmed he had not sought any further explanation from referee Michael Oliver and was dismissive of the prospect of raising the matter with Professional Game Match Officials. “I don’t know how you can. I don’t know where you go. I don’t really know how you go and get another explanation on that one, I have to say,” he said.

When told that Pro Refs occasionally issue apologies for incorrect decisions, Carrick’s response was withering: “Yeah, that’d be great, that. Yeah, I can’t wait for that one.”

Haaland was adjudged to have been played onside by Patrick Dorgu, meaning the legality of the goal ultimately hinged on whether Fernandez’s challenge constituted active interference — a distinction that left Carrick, and much of Old Trafford, unconvinced.