Premier League Admits Error: Haaland’s Goal Against Manchester United Should Not Have Stood!

Pro Ref, the body responsible for refereeing in the Premier League, has admitted that Erling Haaland’s goal in the Manchester derby against Manchester United should not have been allowed.

The goal scored by the Norwegian striker in the 60th minute was initially ruled out for offside, but after VAR intervention the decision was reversed and the goal stood.

The controversy concerns Enzo Fernández’s position during the play. After Patrick Dorgu’s deflection of Josko Gvardiol’s cross, Fernández was near Lisandro Martínez, but VAR judged that the Argentine midfielder had not interfered with play. Pro Ref has now admitted this was an error of judgment.

In an official statement, the body clarified that Haaland was in an onside position, but VAR had not properly assessed the impact of Fernández’s position on the play. According to Pro Ref, VAR should have recommended that the referee review the situation on the pitchside monitor.

“VAR did not recognize the potential impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review,” the statement said.

Pro Ref also said it had contacted Manchester United to acknowledge the error and would launch an investigation into the incident.

The decision has reignited debate over the use of VAR in the Premier League, with Haaland’s goal proving decisive in Manchester City’s derby victory.