Pro Ref admits error over Haaland's goal in Manchester

Under the sky of Old Trafford, the Manchester derby ended thanks to a goal by Erling Haaland. Pro Ref released a statement on Sunday evening confirming that the decisive goal, which gave Manchester City a 1‑0 win over Manchester United, should not have been allowed. The match was played ten against eleven for more than an hour.

In the same statement, Pro Ref said that the match VAR, which intervened after an initial offside decision, ultimately validated the goal. According to the spokesperson, the system should have recommended a pitch‑side review to the central referee Michael Oliver. The decision was echoed by Sky, which called the Sky Blues champions.

VAR error on Fernandez's position

Pro Ref's analysis showed that it was Enzo Fernandez's position, as he tried to head the ball back, that should have been penalized. In the same play, it was established that Fernandez had not touched the ball, but the VAR did not take into account the likely impact of his position. If the VAR had applied the rule correctly, the goal would have been cancelled.

The VAR first flagged an offside on Haaland, then, after review, declared the Norwegian in a legal position. This reversal led the central referee, Michael Oliver, to validate the goal. Experts believe the Ref should have requested an immediate on‑field review.

Pro Ref said it had contacted Manchester United this evening to acknowledge the judgment error. A new examination of the incident will be carried out, according to the statement. The Red Devils now await the investigation's conclusions. The Man club remains under fire.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Blues held the score and thus closed the gap to Arsenal at the top of the league. This victory strengthens Manchester City's position in the title race, while Manchester United must bounce back after the defeat.