VAR Blunder: PGMOL Confirms VAR Mistake Over Haaland Goal In Manchester Derby

Haaland winner should've been ruled out, PGMOL says

“Error Of Judgement,” PGMOL admits Haaland's VAR-awarded goal wrongly stood. VAR Missed Fernandez offside in build-up to Haaland winner..

Carrick furious as PGMOL admits VAR error gifted Haaland derby winner...

PGMOL has acknowledged an “error of judgement” after VAR incorrectly allowed Erling Haaland’s goal in City’s 1-0 derby win against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Haaland’s 60th-minute strike was first ruled out for offside, but the decision was overturned following a VAR check that deemed him to be onside.  

However, PGMOL said VAR missed the potential impact of teammate Enzo Fernandez, who tried to head the ball while in an offside position.  

“The on-field decision was offside against Erling Haaland - that was checked by VAR, and he was found to be in an onside position,” the statement read.

“In the same attack, it was established ⁠that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective; however, on this occasion, the VAR did not recognise the ‌likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review.

“Contact has been made with Manchester United this evening to acknowledge what we deem is an error of judgement. A review of the incident will take place.”

Gianluigi Donnarumma denies Bryan Mbeumo in stoppage-time, @ManCity win the derby! pic.twitter.com/QvVF9lCCtB

— Premier League (@premierleague) September 13, 2026

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick was furious with the decision as his team suffered derby defeat.  

“I just don't get it, I really don't get it, I ‌can't understand how we're trying to help referees, putting so many layers behind them, so many people, bodies and screens, and they can't make the right decision,” ⁠he told a ⁠post-match media conference.