Premier League: Pro Ref admits mistake on Haaland's goal in the derby

The Premier League refereeing body, Pro Ref, has admitted an "error of judgement" in validating the goal with which Erling Haaland gave Manchester City a 1-0 victory in the derby against Manchester United yesterday at Old Trafford. The goal, which came in the 60th minute, was initially disallowed for offside, but the VAR corrected referee Michael Oliver's decision, judging Haaland to be in a regular position.

However, it was Enzo Fernandez's position that generated the dispute. The City midfielder, in an offside position, had dived in an attempt to reach Josko Gvardiol's cross, but was unable to touch the ball. The trajectory was slightly deflected by Patrick Dorgu and Haaland then scored with a header at the far post. The VAR had ruled that Haaland was kept in play by Dorgu's foot and that Fernandez, having not touched the ball, had not committed an offside infringement. Pro Ref, however, recognized that the VAR had not correctly assessed the possible impact of Fernandez's position on the action and should have recommended a review of the monitor to the referee.

"It has been established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore any offside infringement is subjective. However, on this occasion, VAR did not recognize the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-pitch review," Pro Ref explained, adding that it had contacted Manchester United to acknowledge what it considers to be an error of judgement.

An investigation will be launched into the incident. The decision had provoked protests from United. Defender Lisandro Martinez called it an "injustice", while coach Michael Carrick said he was "confused" by the choice. Former Red Devils captain Wayne Rooney also harshly criticized VAR, calling the decision "disconcerting".