The Premier League has described the VAR mistake in the recent Manchester derby as a “significant VAR error” in a communication sent to clubs before the latest shareholders’ meeting. The acknowledgement relates to the decision that allowed Erling Haaland’s winning goal for Manchester City to stand against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, September 13
Manchester City’s 1-0 victory was decided by Haaland’s 60th-minute strike. The goal was initially ruled out for offside against Haaland before VAR reviewed the incident and established that the Norwegian was onside. However, the review failed to properly consider the position and actions of City teammate Enzo Fernández.
Fernández was in an offside position and attempted to play Joško Gvardiol’s cross by diving toward the ball. Although he did not make contact with it, Pro Ref later concluded that VAR had not recognised the likely impact of his position on the Manchester United defence and should have recommended an on-field review.
In its statement to clubs, the Premier League said:
> “Despite a positive start, early season officiating performance has been overshadowed by a significant VAR error in the Manchester United v Manchester City match on Sunday, September 13. The VAR did not recognise an offside offence by Enzo Fernández and incorrectly overturned the original decision of offside to allow the goal to stand.”
Professional Referee Ltd, the body responsible for officiating in English professional football, contacted Manchester United after the match to acknowledge what it called an “error of judgment.” It confirmed that a review of the incident would take place.
Pro Ref chief Howard Webb later said the video officials had developed “tunnel vision” over whether Haaland himself was offside. The semi-automated offside system established that Haaland was onside, but VAR Matt Donohue and assistant VAR Blake Antrobus did not assess whether Fernández’s attempted involvement from an offside position was affecting play.
The Premier League has told clubs that Pro Ref is conducting a full review, with the findings to be examined by the league and any lessons applied immediately. The incident has placed renewed scrutiny on VAR procedures, particularly the need for officials to assess every potential offside offence in a single attacking sequence rather than focusing only on the eventual goalscorer.
