VAR criticised over Haaland's goal in the Manchester derby

The Premier League's refereeing body, Pro Ref, has acknowledged a VAR assessment error on an Erling Haaland goal, which gave Manchester City a 1‑0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford in the 60th minute.

The position of Enzo Fernandez at the centre of the controversy

The shot, initially ruled out for offside, was later validated by the VAR, which deemed Haaland to be in a regular position. Referee Michael Oliver accepted the review. The decision determined the final result of the match.

The City midfielder, Enzo Fernandez, was in an offside position when he attempted to reach Josko Gvardiol's cross, without touching the ball. His presence fueled the complaints of United fans.

The ball's trajectory was slightly deflected by defender Patrick Dorgu, allowing Haaland to head it from the far post. Contact with Dorgu's foot kept the player in play, according to the VAR.

The VAR determined that Haaland was in a regular position and that Fernandez, having not touched the ball, had not committed any offside infringement. Therefore the goal was confirmed.

Pro Ref admitted that the VAR did not correctly assess the impact of Fernandez's position and should have advised an on‑field review. The body also contacted Manchester United to acknowledge the error.

An investigation into the matter has been launched. Defender Lisandro Martinez called the decision an injustice, coach Michael Carrick said he was confused, and former captain Wayne Rooney described it as bewildering.