Pro Ref admits 'error of judgement' over Haaland goal as United's VAR woes mount

Professional Referee Organisation (Pro Ref) has admitted to an “error of judgement” over the VAR ruling that awarded Erling Haaland’s winning goal in Manchester City’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford, adding further controversy to an already turbulent start to United’s Premier League campaign.

Haaland converted a deflected cross shortly after teammate Enzo Fernandez had attempted a diving header without making contact with the ball. United defender Lisandro Martinez was positioned between the two City players when the goal was initially ruled offside, but VAR official Matt Donohue instructed referee Michael Oliver to award it, with Haaland played onside by Patrick Dorgu.

A Pro Ref spokesperson confirmed the governing body had contacted United directly: “The on-field decision was offside against Erling Haaland — that was checked by VAR and he was found to be in an onside position. In the same attack, it was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball, which 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. 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 derby also produced controversy around Phil Foden’s red card. The City midfielder was dismissed for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes, though replays suggested the United captain had made contact with Foden first. United legend Roy Keane was unsparing in his assessment: “Bruno goes in, tackles him, clearly fouls him and gives him a little boot on the floor. Foden gets up, does react, and he’s now sent off. I’m guessing it’s classed as violent conduct, but to me Bruno’s the one who’s violent here. I have to call it out.”

The derby was not the first time United have found themselves at the centre of a significant VAR call this season. In their 5-2 opening-day win over newly-promoted Ipswich Town, United’s second goal stood despite the ball striking Harry Maguire’s arm in the build-up. Because Maguire’s original shot was heading off target before deflecting in off Ipswich’s Jacob Greaves, VAR official Jarred Gillett advised referee Craig Pawson that the accidental handball was not punishable and the goal was allowed to stand, helping United recover from 1-2 down.

The string of incidents leaves United with four points from their first four Premier League games under Michael Carrick, a return that has already drawn scrutiny both on and off the pitch.