Referees admit VAR error in Man City's winning goal against Man Utd

In a statement released shortly after the match, Pro Ref acknowledged that the VAR officials should have recommended an on-field review. The controversy stemmed from Enzo Fernandez's position in an offside stance as he attempted to play the ball before it reached Haaland. Despite not touching the ball, Fernandez's movement was deemed to have potentially impacted the defending by Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez. According to the laws of the game, such interference should have resulted in the goal remaining disallowed.

Pro Ref confirmed that contact has been made with Manchester United to communicate this admission of error. The body also stated that a review of the incident will take place. The Premier League Match Centre had previously explained the decision by stating that VAR determined Haaland was onside and that Fernandez did not play the ball, a rationale that has been met with criticism.