Referee body admits ‘error’ for Haaland goal in Manchester derby

Professional Game Referees (Pro Ref) admitted on Sunday that their decision to allow Erling Haaland's goal in Manchester City's 1-0 victory over Manchester United was an "error of judgment." City were playing with 10 men after Phil Foden's dismissal for kicking Bruno Fernandes. Haaland scored on the hour mark from a close-range finish following Josko Gvardiol's cross.

The goal was initially disallowed for offside against Haaland, but the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) overturned that decision. Despite City midfielder Enzo Fernandez being in an offside position and attempting to reach the ball before Haaland, the goal was awarded, marking Haaland's ninth league strike in Manchester derbies.

Premier League Match Centre posted on social media that VAR determined Haaland was in an onside position and deemed Fernandez hadn't played the ball. However, Pro Ref later stated that VAR did not recognize the likely impact of Fernandez's position and should have recommended an on-field review. Contact was made with Manchester United to acknowledge what Pro Ref deemed an error of judgment, and a review of the incident would take place.

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick expressed concern over the team of officials' decision, stating it was "worrying" that Haaland's goal had been allowed. United defender Lisandro Martinez accused City of an "injustice," stating he was influenced by Fernandez's presence, which allowed Haaland to be free at the back. He criticized the fact that five or six officials making such mistakes in the Premier League is unacceptable, and they had to head home with an "injustice."