Premier League Admits VAR Error Over Erling Haaland's Controversial Manchester Derby Winner

The Premier League refereeing body has admitted an "error of judgement" in awarding Erling Haaland's winner in Sunday's Manchester derby. Manchester City ran out 1-0 winners at Old Trafford despite having Phil Foden sent off in the first half. The win maintained City's perfect start to the season, leaving them second in the Premier League table on 12 points.

For United, it was a second defeat in four league games, leaving them fuming that Haaland's goal was allowed to stand. The City striker prodded home Josko Gvardiol's cross in the 60th minute, a strike initially ruled out for offside before a VAR review overturned the decision.

Although Haaland was onside thanks to Patrick Dorgu, United were incensed because Enzo Fernandez was attempting to play the ball immediately before Haaland scored. Fernandez was in an offside position in the build-up and tried to connect with Gvardiol's cross, drawing the attention of United defender Lisandro Martinez.

A statement published on the Premier League Match Centre's X account explained that VAR checked the referee's call and determined Haaland was onside, while also deeming that Fernandez didn't play the ball. However, Lisandro Martinez called the decision an "injustice," telling Sky Sports that the rules are incomprehensible and unacceptable given the high standards of the Premier League.

Pro Ref released a statement acknowledging that while Enzo Fernandez did not touch the ball—making any offside offence subjective—the VAR failed to recognize the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review. Contact was made with Manchester United to acknowledge the error of judgement.

United boss Michael Carrick expressed serious concern over the interpretation of interference, while the incident continues to spark debate over the application of VAR technology in English football.