Referees chief Webb ‘really disappointed’ over VAR error in Manchester derby

Referee Howard Webb expressed deep disappointment over a recent VAR error that awarded a winner to Erling Haaland in the Manchester derby. The decisive goal, scored in the second half of Manchester City's victory against Manchester United, was initially ruled out for offside but later overturned by VAR officials. City secured a 1-0 win, yet the controversy surrounding the goal overshadowed the result.

United manager Michael Carrick was taken aback by the decision, citing Fernandez's potential distraction to goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Donohue and his assistant Blake Antrobus have been suspended for the upcoming weekend's Premier League matches. Webb, Pro Ref's chief refereeing officer, admitted he was disappointed that the officials fell short in this situation.

He explained that Donohue's focus on Haaland clouded his judgment, and the rest of his team failed to alert him to the error. Webb pledged that the VAR officials would review the incident and learn from it to prevent such errors in the future.