Pro Ref admits VAR error over Haaland's controversial derby winner

Premier League refereeing body Pro Ref has admitted an “error of judgement” in allowing Erling Haaland’s goal to stand in Manchester City’s 1–0 win over Manchester United, saying the VAR should have recommended an on‑field review over Enzo Fernandez’s offside involvement.

Why the goal was controversial

Haaland scored in the 60th minute at Old Trafford, turning in Josko Gvardiol’s cross at the back post. The goal was initially disallowed for offside, but VAR Matthew Donohue overruled after determining Haaland was onside—played on by Patrick Dorgu’s boot.

The controversy centred on City midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was in an offside position and dived for a header in the six‑yard box without touching the ball. Pro Ref said: “It was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective. However, on this occasion, the VAR did not recognise the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on‑field review.”

Under the offside law, a player can be penalised for “clearly attempting to play a ball which is close when this action impacts on an opponent.” BBC analysis noted Fernandez’s dive would have influenced Lisandro Martinez’s decision on whether to play the ball—and possibly goalkeeper Senne Lammens’ positioning—meaning the goal should likely have been ruled out after a monitor review.

United’s reaction: “injustice” and “unacceptable”

United defender Lisandro Martinez called the decision “an injustice” and “unacceptable”, saying Fernandez’s position directly affected his marking of Haaland. “He was there, in front of me. That’s why Haaland was free at the back,” Martinez said.

Head coach Michael Carrick said he was “confused” and “staggered” by the interpretation. “We put things in place in the game now, we have people in offices with all the screens for this decision… If that’s the interpretation of not interfering in the game now, that’s really worrying for me,” Carrick said.

Pro Ref confirmed it had contacted United to acknowledge the error and said a review of the incident would take place.

Foden red card: another flashpoint

The match was already fraught after Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd minute for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes while on the ground. VAR confirmed the red for violent conduct, though opinions were divided on whether Fernandes should also have been booked for his role in the incident.

City boss Enzo Maresca backed Foden’s red but argued Fernandes’ action also warranted a sending‑off. “Phil’s card is a red card, but I also think the same action is a red card by Bruno,” Maresca said. Pundits including Roy Keane and Gary Neville questioned whether Foden’s reaction merited a straight red, while others pointed to Fernandes’ initial contact.

Bottom line

Pro Ref’s admission underlines a double controversy in a tight derby: a VAR mistake on the offside call that decided the result, and ongoing debate over the threshold for red cards in heated moments.