Premier League Referees’ Body Admits ‘Error of Judgement’ Over Haaland’s Winner Against Manchester Utd

ISTANBUL, Sept 14 — The Premier League’s refereeing body, Pro Ref, has acknowledged an “error of judgement” in allowing Erling Haaland’s winning goal during Manchester City’s 1-0 derby victory over Manchester United on Sunday.

Haaland converted a low cross from Josko Gvardiol at the back post in the 60th minute at Old Trafford. Although the goal was initially ruled out for offside on the field, the decision was overturned following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review after Haaland was found to have been in an onside position.

However, controversy erupted over City midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was in an offside position and attempted to play the cross without making contact with the ball.

“In the same attack, 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,” Pro Ref said in an official statement.

Pro Ref confirmed it has contacted Manchester United directly to acknowledge the officiating mistake, adding that the incident will undergo a formal review.

VAR Matthew Donohue and assistant VAR Blake Antrobus had initially determined that Haaland was onside and that Fernandez, despite his positioning, had not committed an offside offence.

The controversial 60th-minute strike proved decisive as a 10-man Manchester City side held on for the victory after Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd minute.

–NMT