Pro Ref admits error after Man City’s goal against Manchester United

Erling Haaland’s 60th‑minute strike proved the decisive moment in Manchester City’s 1‑0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, sealing the game‑winner despite City having been reduced to ten men after Phil Foden’s red card earlier in the match.

Refereeing error admitted

Professional Game Referees (Pro Ref), the body that oversees officials in English football, issued a statement on Sunday admitting an error of judgement in Man City’s 1‑0 win over Man United. It clarified that Erling Haaland’s goal should have been subject to an on‑field offsides review. Per Pro Ref, Erling Haaland was onside, but Enzo Fernandez’s offside position required further scrutiny.

The statement said the VAR had correctly found Haaland onside but failed to consider Fernandez’s likely impact, making the offside offence subjective. The organisation has contacted Man United this evening to acknowledge the mistake and will review the incident. It described the oversight as an error of judgement by the referees.

The match’s early twist came in the 23rd minute when Phil Foden was shown a straight red card for kicking at Bruno Fernandes while on the ground. City were forced to play the remainder of the game with ten men on the pitch. The dismissal gave United a brief numerical advantage.

Despite the disadvantage, City held the lead for more than 35 minutes after Haaland’s goal, securing the win. Enzo Maresca, in his first season as manager, celebrated the resilience of his side. A post‑match comment read: “The kings of Manchester still wear blue.”

League implications

The victory maintains Manchester City’s perfect 4‑0‑0 start to the Premier League season, leaving them second on points, level with Arsenal. Manchester United’s record slips to 1‑1‑2 after the defeat, which follows an opening‑week loss to Hull City. Both clubs’ positions reflect the early volatility of the campaign.

Pro Ref confirmed that a formal review of the incident will take place, underscoring the governing body’s commitment to accurate officiating. No further action has been announced, but the acknowledgement aims to preserve confidence in the English game’s refereeing standards.