Referees Apologise to Manchester United Over Controversial Derby Goal

A Costly Derby Mistake

Manchester United have received an apology from the Premier League referees' body, Pro Ref. The organisation admitted that VAR made an error by allowing Erling Haaland's winning goal for Manchester City on Sunday.

The goal came in the 60th minute at Old Trafford. Haaland scored from a deflected Josko Gvardiol cross. Although the assistant referee flagged for offside, the goal was allowed to stand. Manchester City won the match 1-0.

How the VAR Call Went Wrong

VAR official Matthew Donohue and assistant VAR Blake Antrobus overruled the on field decision. They ruled that City midfielder Enzo Fernández was not active or interfering with play.

However, Pro Ref has now admitted this was a mistake. A spokesperson explained that while Fernández did not touch the ball, the VAR failed to recognise the impact of his position. The VAR should have recommended an on field review for the referee.

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick described the decision as "worrying." Defender Lisandro Martínez, who was challenging Fernández during the play, called the decision an "injustice." Pro Ref has contacted United to acknowledge the error, and a full review will take place.

The Impact on the Table

This result leaves Manchester City at the top of the Premier League. City and Arsenal are now the only two teams with maximum points after four matches.

Meanwhile, Manchester United are struggling in 13th place. They have recorded just one win, one draw, and two defeats so far this season.

What it means for the next game

Manchester United vs Brighton & Hove Albion (Carabao Cup, Wed, 16 Sep): Manchester United win 52%, draw 23%, Brighton & Hove Albion win 25%; expected goals 2.00 to 1.36. Our safest pick: Manchester United or Draw.

Manchester City vs Norwich City (Carabao Cup, Thu, 17 Sep): Manchester City win 81%, draw 12%, Norwich City win 7%; expected goals 3.12 to 0.87. Our safest pick: Over 2.5 goals.