Pro Ref admits error, United demand review of Haaland winner

The Premier League’s refereeing body, Professional Game Referees, has told Manchester United it made an error of judgement on Erling Haaland’s winning goal in the Manchester Derby, a decision that leaves United’s manager under fresh pressure after a 1‑0 defeat.

Professional Game Referees (Pro Ref) said it had contacted Man United this evening to acknowledge what it calls an ‘error of judgement’ on the goal. The statement said the decision to award Erling Haaland’s strike should have been reviewed. United’s officials have been handed the acknowledgement ahead of any formal appeal.

Ten‑men drama and Haaland’s strike

Manchester City were reduced to ten men after Phil Foden was dismissed for kicking Bruno Fernandes. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Haaland netted on the hour mark, finishing close‑range from a Josko Gvardiol delivery. The goal proved decisive in the 1‑0 Manchester Derby win and sealed the game.

VAR check and off‑side controversy

Pro Ref’s statement on the refereeing decision noted that the on‑field decision was off‑side after a VAR check, but the VAR flagged Haaland as on‑side. It added that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball, making any off‑side offence subjective, and that the VAR should have recommended an on‑field review. The body now admits the referee and VAR missed the likely impact of Fernandez’s position.

Man Utd manager Michael Carrick expressed clear disappointment, saying he could not accept the goal standing. He described the decision as costly and questioned how the referee could have missed the off‑side call. Carrick’s comments underscored the frustration felt by the Red Devils after the loss.

Pro Ref confirmed that a formal review of the incident will take place. The governing body said it will re‑examine the footage and the VAR protocol applied. United can expect the outcome of that review in the coming days.