Why Haaland’s goal against Man United Stood: Premier League explains VAR decision

The Premier League Match Centre has clarified why Erling Haaland’s controversial goal was eventually awarded during Manchester City’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Haaland’s 60th-minute finish was initially ruled out for offside after he converted Josko Gvardiol’s deflected cross. However, VAR conducted a lengthy review before overturning the on-field decision.

According to the Premier League Match Centre, Haaland was actually in an onside position when Gvardiol delivered the cross. The Red Devils defender Patrick Dorgu’s outstretched foot played the City striker onside, something that was confirmed by the semi-automated offside technology.

The other major point of the review involved Enzo Fernández. The Manchester City midfielder was in an offside position and attempted to reach the cross, but he did not make contact with the ball.

VAR explains Erling Haaland’s goal

The VAR therefore determined that Fernández had not committed an offside offence by playing the ball, and the goal was recommended to stand.

The official explanation was:

“VAR checked the referee’s call of no goal for offside and determined that Haaland was in an onside position and recommended that the goal was awarded.”

The decision remains controversial, with questions raised over whether Fernández’s movement interfered with United defender Lisandro Martínez. However, under the offside law, the VAR judged that his actions did not constitute an offence.

Manchester City won the game 1-0 as they continue their perfect run to the Premier League season under Enzo Maresca.

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