Premier League admits error as Man City’s goal sparks controversy

On Sunday the Premier League’s refereeing association admitted an error of judgment in Manchester City’s 1‑0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford, saying Erling Haaland’s goal was onside while Enzo Fernandez’s off‑side position was not reviewed during the game in the 60th minute.

Early red card changes the game

In the 23rd minute Phil Foden was shown a straight red card for kicking Bruno Fernandes while on the ground, leaving City with ten men for the rest of the first half at Old Trafford.

City struggled to create chances but held United at bay, setting the stage for a decisive second half.

Controversial off‑side decision

Professional Game Referees (Pro Ref), the body that oversees officials in English football, released a statement on Sunday clarifying that Haaland’s game‑winning goal should have been subject to an on‑field offsides review. Per Pro Ref, Haaland was onside, but Enzo Fernandez’s off‑side position was not examined closely enough.

The body said the VAR check confirmed Haaland’s on‑side status, yet failed to consider Fernandez’s likely impact, prompting an acknowledgement of an error of judgment and a promise to review the incident.

Pro Ref has contacted Manchester United this evening to acknowledge the mistake and will conduct a formal review, according to a statement quoted by Fabrizio Romano.

In the 60th minute Haaland scored the winner, chipping a pass from Josko Gvardiol into the net, and the game was decided by his strike as City protected the lead for more than 35 minutes despite being a man down.

The victory keeps Manchester City unbeaten with a 4‑0‑0 record, sitting second in the Premier League tied on points with Arsenal, while Manchester United’s record drops to 1‑1‑2 after a defeat that follows a loss to Hull City.

City manager Enzo Maresca, in his first season, celebrated the result, saying: “The kings of Manchester still wear blue.”

City held the lead until the final whistle, securing the win amid the admitted refereeing error.