Manchester United manager Michael Carrick voiced frustration following a Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford, focusing on a contentious decision regarding Erling Haaland’s winning goal. The goal, scored in the 60th minute, came after a cross from Josko Gvardiol deflected off Patrick Dorgu, passed Enzo Fernández and United defender Lisandro Martínez, before Haaland finished. Although initially flagged for offside, video assistant referee (VAR) Matt Donohue overturned the call after a review lasting over two minutes, ruling that Fernández was not interfering with play despite his advanced position.
Carrick criticized the decision, describing it as baffling and questioning the interpretation of the offside rule. He suggested that Fernández’s proximity to the ball forced Martínez to react, which should have qualified as interference. “I can’t understand how they’re trying to help referees and putting so many layers behind them ... if that’s really how the game’s seen by those officiating it,” Carrick said. He also expressed skepticism about any forthcoming apology from the official body, Pro Ref, indicating the ruling was clearly incorrect from his perspective.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca, however, defended the decision, emphasizing that Fernández did not interfere with play and noting that the fourth official confirmed Haaland was onside. Maresca also commented on another controversial moment in the fixture involving Phil Foden’s red card in the 23rd minute. Foden was sent off after kicking Bruno Fernandes, though Maresca argued that Fernandes had also committed a foul and should have been penalized similarly. The dismissal means Foden faces a three-match suspension, affecting his availability for both league and Carabao Cup fixtures.
United defender Lisandro Martínez publicly shared his displeasure with the VAR ruling, insisting Fernández did interfere, further amplifying criticism of the officiating. This incident adds to ongoing debates about the consistency and clarity of VAR interpretations in the Premier League.
The match, the 199th Manchester derby, ended with City maintaining second place in the league with 12 points, just behind Arsenal on goal difference, while United remained in 13th position with four points. Following the loss, Carrick expressed cautious optimism about United’s progress, stating, “We’ve made good strides over a period of time and we will continue to do that.” The fixture highlighted both the intense rivalry between the clubs and the continuing scrutiny of video technology’s role in modern football officiating.