Harry Maguire calls VAR decision on Erling Haaland a f****** joke

Harry Maguire blasted the VAR officials after Erling Haaland's winning goal was allowed in the Manchester derby on Sunday, 14 Sep 2026. United were left furious when the technology overturned an off‑side call, costing them victory at Old Trafford in a tightly contested encounter amid growing debate over the system.

Comments Sport Daniel Marsh Senior Sports Reporter 17:34, 14 Sep 2026, View 3 Images.

VAR overturns Haaland's off‑side call

The goal was initially ruled out for off‑side, but VAR intervened in the 60th minute and declared Haaland on‑side, awarding Manchester City the lead. The official statement read: “The on‑field decision was off‑side against Erling Haaland's – that was checked by VAR and he was found to be in an on‑side position.” Image: Getty captured the moment of the decision. The strike gave City the decisive edge.

Aftermath and disciplinary action

The same review noted that Enzo Fernandez had not played the ball, despite attempting to reach Josko Gvardiol’s cross while in an off‑side position, and therefore the off‑side offence was deemed subjective. Fernandez’s attempt was judged irrelevant to the off‑side line, and VAR did not recommend an on‑field review of his involvement.

Matt Donohue, the VAR official, and his assistant were stood down by Pro Ref over the weekend, and the organisation issued an apology to United. The apology acknowledged an error of judgement, sparked a flurry of social‑media criticism and promised a review of the incident.

The controversy revived a March outburst in which Maguire, then playing for United, called the fourth‑official Matt Donohue a “f****** joke” after being sent off against Bournemouth. That incident led to a one‑match ban for Maguire following a penalty awarded to Bournemouth when he pulled down Evanilson. Maguire’s remarks were later shared with an independent regulatory commission.

Pundits such as Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney quickly suggested the VAR decision was wrong, both former players arguing that the technology had failed to correct a clear error.

Manchester City ultimately won the match 1‑0. Pro Ref confirmed contact had been made with United that evening and that a formal review would take place. United’s management said they would seek clarification from the governing body.

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