The VAR official involved in confirming Erling Haaland’s controversial winning goal during Manchester City’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United has reportedly been given time off from officiating duties following the highly debated decision.
The controversy arose during the Manchester derby at Old Trafford when Haaland scored in the 60th minute from Josko Gvardiol’s cross. The goal was initially ruled out for offside before a lengthy VAR review overturned the decision, determining that United defender Patrick Dorgu had played Haaland onside.
Further debate centred on Enzo Fernandez, who was in an offside position and attempted to reach the ball during the move. VAR concluded that he did not interfere with play because he did not touch the ball, allowing Haaland’s goal to stand.
The decision proved decisive as City, despite playing with 10 men from the 23rd minute following Phil Foden’s red card, held on for a 1-0 victory. Manchester United manager Michael Carrick later questioned the interpretation of the incident and described the decision as difficult to accept.
The result gave Manchester City three valuable points in the 199th Manchester derby, keeping their perfect start to the Premier League season intact with 12 points from four matches.
