Pro Ref admits error of judgement after Haaland's controversial derby winner stands

Pro Ref has admitted an “error of judgement” in allowing Erling Haaland’s goal to stand in Manchester City’s 1-0 Premier League victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, confirming the decision should have been subject to an on-field review.

Haaland tucked in Josko Gvardiol’s deflected cross from the left wing on the hour-mark to give the 10-man visitors — reduced after Phil Foden’s early red card — a winner that proved decisive. The goal was initially ruled out for offside against Haaland before VAR intervened, deeming him level with Patrick Dorgu’s foot and allowing the goal to stand.

The controversy centred on Enzo Fernandez, who was in an offside position and appeared to make an attempt to play the ball during the same phase of attack. The Premier League Match Centre ruled that because Fernandez did not make contact with the ball, no offside offence had been committed — a decision Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez publicly branded an “injustice”.

Pro Ref moved quickly to address the furore, releasing a statement within hours of the final whistle. “The on-field decision was offside against Erling Haaland — that was checked by VAR and he was found to be in an onside position,” a spokesperson said. “In the same attack, it was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective, however, on this occasion, the VAR did not recognise the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review.”

The body confirmed it had contacted Manchester United directly to acknowledge the mistake. “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,” the statement added.

The admission is a significant one, coming so swiftly after a match whose result carries considerable weight in the Premier League title picture. City claimed all three points despite finishing with ten men, while United are left with the knowledge that a refereeing error contributed to their defeat in one of English football’s most high-profile fixtures.