Haaland scored the only goal of the match in the 60th minute after initially being flagged for offside. A lengthy VAR review subsequently overturned the on-field decision and confirmed that the Manchester City striker was in an onside position.
However, Pro Ref, the body responsible for overseeing Premier League refereeing, said the review failed to properly consider the position and actions of Enzo Fernandez during the attack.
Fernandez was in an offside position and attempted to connect with the cross before the ball reached Haaland. Although he did not touch the ball, Pro Ref said the VAR failed to recognise the likely impact of his position on the play.
According to the refereeing body, the situation was subjective because Fernandez did not play the ball. However, Pro Ref said the VAR should have recommended an on-field review because of the possible influence of the offside player’s position.
Pro Ref also confirmed that it had contacted Manchester United to acknowledge what it described as an error of judgement. The organisation said a review of the incident would take place.
The development means the Haaland derby goal, which had already generated significant debate following the match, has now been acknowledged by the refereeing authority as an incorrect VAR decision.
The controversy centres on the distinction between being in an offside position and actually interfering with play. While Haaland was determined to be onside, Pro Ref concluded that Fernandez’s position should have received greater consideration during the VAR review.
Manchester City ultimately kept the goal and secured a 1-0 victory, but the admission from Pro Ref is likely to intensify discussion over the use of VAR and how subjective offside decisions are assessed.
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