Manchester United has found itself at the center of several significant Video Assistant Referee (VAR) controversies early in the current Premier League season. The club’s challenging start, marked by just four points from their initial four fixtures, was further complicated by contentious officiating during their recent Manchester derby defeat.
Manchester Derby Decisions Under Scrutiny
The match against Manchester City was dominated by pivotal refereeing calls. A key moment involved the expulsion of Manchester City’s Phil Foden. Foden was shown a red card for an incident with United captain Bruno Fernandes. However, replays suggested that Fernandes may have initiated contact by kicking Foden first.
Former United captain Roy Keane, speaking on Sky Sports, expressed his view that Fernandes was fortunate to avoid further sanctions. “Bruno goes in, tackles him, clearly fouls him and gives him a little boot on the floor. Foden gets up, does react, and he’s now sent off. I’m guessing it’s classed as violent conduct, but to me Bruno’s the one who’s violent here. I have to call it out,” Keane stated, highlighting his belief that the initial foul lay with the United midfielder.
Haaland’s Controversial Winner
The most debated incident of the derby, however, surrounded the game’s sole goal, scored by Erling Haaland. A body known as ‘Pro Ref,’ which provides expert analysis on refereeing decisions, later acknowledged an “error of judgement” regarding the goal. The strike came from a deflected cross shortly after City teammate Enzo Fernandez attempted a diving header. United defender Lisandro Martinez was positioned between the two City players at the time.
Initially, the goal was disallowed for offside against Haaland. VAR official Matt Donohue reviewed the play and advised referee Michael Oliver to award the goal. The decision hinged on the interpretation of Enzo Fernandez’s involvement. Officials ruled that Fernandez had not interfered with play, as he failed to make contact with the ball. This meant that Haaland, who was deemed onside due to the position of Patrick Dorgu, could be considered onside.
A spokesperson for Pro Ref explained the situation: “The on-field decision was offside against Erling Haaland – that was checked by VAR and he was found to be in an on-side position. In the same attack, it was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball, which 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.”
Previous United VAR Incidents
This was not the first time VAR has been a talking point for Manchester United this season. Earlier in the campaign, during their 5-2 victory over newly-promoted Ipswich Town at Old Trafford, the club was perceived to have benefited from a contentious call.
Maguire’s Goal Against Ipswich
Manchester United’s second goal in that match sparked debate. The ball appeared to strike Harry Maguire’s arm in the build-up to his strike. Had this been deemed a handball offense, Maguire’s goal would have been disallowed. However, the goal stood because the shot was heading off target and was deflected into the net by Ipswich defender Jacob Greaves.
VAR official Jarred Gillett reviewed the incident with referee Craig Pawson. Gillett’s advice was: “It’s an own goal and the accidental handball is not punishable. So, we recommend you award the goal.” This interpretation meant that the handball, even if accidental and not directly leading to the goalscorer’s shot, did not negate the goal.
Penalty Claim Against Everton
In another fixture, Manchester United were denied a penalty during their goalless draw with Everton. The incident occurred when Marcus Rashford made an impressive surge into the area and delivered the ball to Matheus Cunha. Cunha went down following a challenge by Everton defender James Tarkowski.
Despite the appeal, referee John Brooks did not award a penalty, a decision supported by Sky Sports pundit Lee Hendrie. “Tarkowski gets enough on the ball, and he does, just,” Hendrie commented. “The penalty has been checked and it’s cleared. It’s a brilliant tackle. This angle shows more, he just gets complete purchase on the ball. Is Cunha looking for it? Tell you what, it is a risky one but it’s well worth it. It’s outstanding defending from Tarkowski.” Hendrie’s analysis suggested that Tarkowski’s challenge was a legitimate tackle, making contact with the ball sufficiently to avoid a penalty award.
Conclusion on VAR’s Impact
These incidents highlight a season where VAR decisions have frequently been a subject of discussion and debate surrounding Manchester United’s performances. From potential red cards and disallowed goals to penalty appeals, the technology’s application continues to be a significant talking point in the Premier League.
