United boss Carrick slams VAR after City’s Haaland goal

In a tense Manchester derby on Sunday (13), Manchester City edged United 1‑0 in the fourth round of the Premier League, but the victory was eclipsed by a contentious Erling Haaland goal that sparked a VAR debate over Enzo Fernández’s involvement.

The win lifted City to twelve points, matching Arsenal, although their goal difference trails. United, with four points, sit thirteenth and must react quickly to avoid slipping further down the table.

Early in the first half Phil Foden received a red card after a clash with Bruno Fernandes, leaving City a man down. United played the second half with a numerical advantage but failed to create a decisive chance.

VAR scrutiny of Haaland’s strike

The decisive Haaland goal was first examined for a possible off‑side, which the VAR confirmed as legal. Attention then turned to Enzo Fernández, who rose to head a cross from Robin Gvardiol but could not reach the ball.

After Fernández’s missed header, Haaland pounced and tucked the ball home, prompting questions about whether the midfielder had interfered with the play.

United manager slams officiating, league defends

After the match, United manager Michael Carrick said he was "preocupado" and criticised the interpretation of the incident. He added:

"A explicação que eu tive é que ele (Enzo) não interferiu na jogada. Não entendo. Realmente não entendo. Não consigo entender como estamos tentando ajudar os árbitros e colocando tantas camadas atrás deles, com tantas pessoas, tantos órgãos, tantas telas e tantos escritórios — sejam lá o que forem — para tentar chegar às decisões corretas"

He continued:

"Se é assim que as regras são interpretadas… ou seja, que você não está interferindo na jogada porque se jogou na bola a seis jardas do gol e praticamente quase a tocou, o que fez Leif (Davis) reagir… Além disso, a linha traçada estava um pouco duvidosa, desde o começo. É preocupante se é assim que o jogo é visto por quem o está apitando"

The Premier League responded on social media, stating that VAR considered Fernández to be in an off‑side position but confirmed he did not touch the ball. Foto: Jogada10

Os Red Devils must now chase points to climb the table, while City aim to maintain their perfect start to the season.