POLL: Did VAR make a mistake in allowing Erling Haaland's goal vs Manchester United?

18:59, 13 Sep 2026Updated 22:01, 13 Sep 2026

Manchester City gained the bragging rights on Sunday afternoon as they beat Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford. While City deserved the win on the balance of play, there was plenty of controversy surrounding Erling Haaland's winner.

Just after the hour mark, Haaland scored as Josko Gvardiol's cross deflected into his path at the back post. Quickly, the assistant referee raised his flag to indicate that Haaland was offside.

However, VAR checked the decision and initially found that Haaland was in line with the ball when Gvardiol crossed it. The discussion then turned to Enzo Fernandez. He was definitely offside in the build-up.

The former Chelsea man did not touch the ball, but did attempt a diving header to turn it goalwards. After a lengthy wait, the officials at Stockley Park advised that the initial decision of offside should be overturned, and the goal was given.

In the aftermath of the decision, the Premier League Match Centre explained why the goal was allowed. Their statement read: "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 VAR also deemed that while in an offside position, Fernandez didn’t play the ball." While that is the official decision, what do you think?

But do you think it was the correct call? Have your say below:

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